Finding Solace: An Actress's Journey of Forgiveness and Faith

Nice to Meet You

"I'm Keren Adler, an actress, creator, comedian, and a woman who has returned to faith. I live in Rehovot, and I'm a mother to five stars whom I strive to raise with joy, reverence, respect, love for others, and fulfilling their potential to light up the world. I'm married to Ido, an actor turned motorcycle policeman in Bnei Brak and a fitness coach for men.

"With Ido's help, I'm currently writing my first stand-up show, and performing in a play about my journey back to faith, called 'Thanks to Him, I'm Here.' I'm also about to complete my training as a fitness instructor, so I can not only make women laugh but also help them become healthier and stronger."

What Has Changed Most Since You Returned to Faith?

"What hasn't changed? Everything has shifted! My view of the world, my opinions, dreams, desires, even my outward appearance and behavior. I've discovered personal growth work that I didn't know existed before. While my core personality remains the same, my perspective has completely transformed."

What Are the Main Challenges of Returning to Faith?<\/strong>

"Challenges are everywhere. But let's be honest, who doesn't face challenges? Life is a journey of facing them for everyone."

How Was Your First Elul After Returning to Faith?

"It was amazing. Until then, I simply didn't believe that Rosh Hashanah held any significance beyond meals. Understanding that the symbolic dishes at the table have meaning, the concept of introspection, and most importantly, the real chance to improve and look forward to the future—it was enchanting. Until then, I didn't realize the depth present in every moment of a Jew's daily life, and that's what struck me during my first Elul. I've been trying to preserve that excitement to this day."

When Was the Last Time You Asked For Forgiveness?

"I asked for forgiveness yesterday. My mother was visiting, and I was stressed about filming a promotional video I had been asked to do, and I didn't pay much attention when my kids gathered around her. So yes, I apologized to my mom, and in general, I have no problem apologizing. By nature, I'm someone who engages in self-reflection and feel that I benefit greatly from apologizing and seeking redemption. Incidentally, speaking of asking for forgiveness, my father passed away a few years ago on Rosh Chodesh Marcheshvan, and what comforted me most was that I was able to speak with him on Yom Kippur and ask for his forgiveness. It was incredibly important and powerful."

New Insights From the Past Year?

"The most important insight is respect for parents. I'm happy to share that I attended a course on respecting parents with Rabbanit Ahuvah Tzukerman and Yael Rat, which gave me emotional healing on this topic. Women from all backgrounds attended, and everyone was amazed at how much this mitzvah can be refined and emphasized. It brings healing and inner peace, and even helps with psychological issues. The idea is to understand that our abundance comes from humility towards our parents, realizing that our path is guided, with no confusion from Hashem, and that we can never fully take a parent's place—not only physically, as the mitzvah requires, but also emotionally. Understanding this provides great peace and inner joy.

"Humility towards our parents reflects on our interactions with others, our relationships, and our approach to our children. I think that in times like these, where everyone is set in their beliefs, it's important to approach the world with some humility. It can bring people together, softening hearts that have been so hardened this year.

"It's important to note that sometimes those returning to faith might feel superior to their parents for having found the 'truth,' but my return led me to see it as a homecoming—a connection to my roots. I need my parents, their good eye, wise advice, and love. May we return that love unconditionally."

Is There a Poem From the High Holy Days That You Particularly Connect With?

"*Ochilah L’kel*. Every time we reach this poem, I am moved anew by the thought that while one organizes and prepares what to say, they still need Hashem's help. I feel this has been my prayer since returning to faith—if once I wanted to be an actress for myself, today it's for His sake, and I ask Him to help me merit fulfilling the verse: 'I will thank you in the great congregation, in a mighty throng I will praise You.'"