Today is the eve of a major Jewish holiday. That's about all anyone knows who isn't an m.0.t. in their own right. That's where I come in, apparently, serving as the resident Jew. My job includes such tasks as recommending an apropos dessert to bring to a Rosh Hashanah dinner (apple dumplings, duh).
"Laura, I know this guy is Jewish and I want to say happy holidays. I mean, I can't say 'shalom,' right?" The answer to that is, of course you can. But you'll look a little ridiculous.
I love fielding these queries, as I'm almost excessively proud of my heritage, but how do others feel? Does a non-practicing Jew get hit with it this time of year? Do they feel out of place or weird responding? And what if someone hasn't openly claimed their faith. This strikes me as asking a bespectacled passerby where the nearest Apple store is, because they look "smart." Is that rude?
Stay tuned for the Christmas decorations in public spaces debate...
Just kidding.
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I think whenever you are a member of a minority you end up having to be an ambassador. At least that's what my mother told me when I first learned to be the resident Jew in college. Spike Lee has rejected that role, to much criticism. I personally like the job and rest well knowing that you are an excellent RJ.
But if you ever find yourself resenting the question from someone you don't like or respect, you could always make up a fun answer, um, such as, such as... "You should always wear blue lipstick, green rouge and red eyeshadow to a Passover Seder. It's an ancient tradition that means joyful life." or, you know, such as.
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