Ever since I was little, I’ve been able to do very special things. I get a lot of benefit from the fact that my father is a Rabbi. But that doesn’t all mean missing school to go to baby namings, or going to a wedding with a pool. I’m also expected to act a very mature way.
I have done so many cool things with my dad, but this weekend is very different. I feel a lot older and mature knowing that my dad feels comfortable inviting me to places like Washington, D.C. with him. My two younger sisters, who are nine and six, would never be invited to come here. Well… they would, but in a couple of years. I feel good knowing that my father knows that I will behave, not show my boredom (if I do have any), and might even appreciate the J Street conference last night. After today, this will be proof that I can miss a day of school, for something educational, yet very relaxing. It will be proof that my dad can trust me with big opportunities like this.
Before my dad and I got to Penn station, we took the subway to 34th Street. As I was riding, I realized that I really had no clue what this conference was about. I knew it was work, but I also knew it was a way for me and my dad to spend some time together. I asked him on the train what this whole project/conference was all about, and he took about 20 minutes to explain to everything. And what I was so grateful for, was that I knew my dad was different from everyone else. Most people will give an explanation that’s very, very boring. But my dad has the ability to explain everything in a very fun and interactive way. Last year in Hebrew school, we learned for about 3 weeks about the two state solution. I learned a lot, but I realized that those 20 minutes on the train: I learned so much more. I’ve always listened to my dad’s speeches and sermons, but it was yesterday on the train that I realized he had the ability to teach in a way that wouldn’t bore me to death. So even though my dad’s blackberry was in front of me, with my facebook page open, I put that down when he got up for his speech. Because I wanted to hear what he had to say, and I wanted to see if he bored me to death, which, of course, he didn’t.
I can’t wait for my next opportunity to go on a trip with him like this. I really can’t. I learn a lot, meet a lot of people, and get to spend time with my amazing dad. :)
Editor’s Note: Here’s some footage that Audrey shot for us!