Converting to Judaism as a Transgender Person

When I first met with a rabbi she asked me a bunch of questions about why I wanted to be Jewish. I told her how important community was to me. Two years later, I can tell you that being part of one has saved my life. I doubt you know this, but you, Dawn, were the first person at the synagogue that I ever met. You tried to give me tea and welcomed me to something about being Gay and Jewish.  You took me inside and introduced me to someone that unfortunately I  can't remember and sat me down.

I listened to all of the people speaking, but when Noach Dzmura spoke, I knew that I was in a good place and would be OK. I met Rabbi Mates- Muchin, and you invited me to Rock n Roll Shabbat. You had an extra ticket for dinner, and I was nervous but still managed to eat my share of chicken. I still remember you telling me Services were not always like that.  I trusted you from the beginning and knew that I could ask you anything. You have helped me on my journey to become the person I want to be in the world. You didn't laugh when I told you how I got my new name. I need to tell you that I am pretty darn sure that I wouldn't have come this far on my journey without you. I am still working on finding my place in the world, but the awesome thing is that I want to live and be a part of the world.

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