TREYF MY LIFE AS AN UNORTHODOX OUTLAW Book Review

In the Jewish religion, the most basic definition of treyf is that of food that is considered un-kosher. That, however, does not prevent many Jews from eating non kosher food.

Elissa Altman’s recently published memoir, entitled TREYF: My Life as an Unorthodox Outlaw, follows her childhood in 1970’s era Queens, NY. The child of a Jewish family, Ms. Altman, like many of the Jewish faith, lived a double life. While her family followed many of the Jewish traditions, they also consumed pork, bacon and other non-kosher foods.

I was drawn to the concept of the book because like many non-orthodox Jews, I live a double life. I am traditional to a certain degree, but at the same time, I have a love of certain foods and live in a way that my more traditional co-coreligionists would not approve of. However, the first half of the book was a little slow, I was almost ready to give it up. It is only in the second half of the book when I was finally engaged in the book.

Do I recommend it? Maybe.

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Everything Changes- Thoughts On The Eve Of Rosh Hashanah

I saw this video earlier this morning and I can’t think of a better way to usher in Rosh Hashanah.

I won’t lie, I have faced difficulties this past year, like we all do. Sometimes it feels like I am stuck, that my dreams will remain my dreams. Sometimes it feels like doing the work required to transform my dreams into reality feels futile.

Then this video reminded me that life can change for the better. What we are working for in life, we can achieve.

To all those who celebrate Rosh Hashanah, L’Shana Tova, have a sweet and happy new year. To those who are struggling, regardless of your faith, hang on. Someday, somehow, things will change for the better.

Have a good week and enjoy the rest of your Sunday.