As a Jew growing up in a secular society, I realized at an early age that the world at large was rather cold and disinterested in my general well-being. This is not to take away from my friends and family who have been and continue to be an immeasurable source of support and love for me. But beyond that I’ve learned to approach everyone else with a healthy amount of cynicism. I have always thought that way and in many ways I still do. But now I know of at least one place in the world, where I can go and completely leave that pessimistic view behind.

Sea Gate, NY is home to what was the oldest manned light house in the U.S., for which it has gained a decent amount of notoriety, though mostly from sailors. But more importantly it is the home of an even brighter source of light and guidance, Yeshiva Tiferes Menachem, to which I had the good fortune to attend during their latest 10-day program called “The Naked ‘I’.” The program revealed a deeper insight into Jewish identity, hence the title, which was taught by both the resident staff of Rabbis, as well as several visiting speakers.

            In truth it is difficult to adequately convey to anyone who did not attend the program what took place during these ten days. What I believe must be addressed first is the feeling alone one experiences just from being in this very special place. The closest thing that I can relate it to is like finding not just a long-lost relative or friend, but a whole family that is genuinely concerned and sympathetic about your being a happier, better and more complete person. This includes both the Rabbis and the students, who relate well to where you’ve been and how you can advance in Jewish life. In general I have always been a firm believer that there is no place like home, and now I know it’s true, because there are some places even better.

            The program itself was designed in such a way as to give a newcomer to Jewish learning a panoramic view into the essence of authentic Judaism. The classes included everything from practical Jewish law for living in the world today all the way to the mystical aspects of G-dliness taught in Chassidus. The rabbis take a personal approach with their students that could not be expected even in the smallest of classes at the most expensive secular private schools. These rabbis really care, and not in the sense that your performance is merely a reflection of how well they teach, but like a parent who wants to ensure a good life for his child. This I believe is what sets this program apart.

            And this is just the backdrop setting for some of the most brilliant and inspiring lectures one would hope to attend on Jewish thought. I could attempt to convey the content of the lectures, but as all of the speakers were far more eloquent in conveying their messages than I am, I believe the best way to understand their talks is to access the archives on the website. What I can tell you though is that through the program I learned about myself, I learned what it means for me to be a Jew and how to take a timeless tradition and apply it not only to myself at home, but to the entire world. And now I find myself left with only one overriding question. When is the next program?

Noah Merenfeld 6.11.04