Rediscovering Our Roots: One Woman's Inspiring Journey to Judaism

Anael Shmueli, a well-known social media influencer, shared the moving story of her mother's conversion to Judaism 45 years ago—a time when such a journey was truly extraordinary.

Shmueli describes how her mother's conversion process was long and challenging: "I am Jewish by choice. It's a choice my mother made through great struggles and sacrifices 45 years ago. She underwent an old-style conversion, which meant cutting herself off completely from her family, her land, everything she was accustomed to. Unimaginable."

In her post, Shmueli continues to write about how we often take for granted being born Jewish. "As Jews, the right to be born into this identity feels self-evident, to the point that we sometimes forget our roots. This period constantly urges us to shake ourselves awake and choose the Jewish people and the privilege we’ve grown accustomed to."

Her mother's conversion story is a reminder of the choices and sacrifices that are sometimes required in life, and the importance of staying true to oneself and one's values—even when it demands great sacrifices. Her mother's decision to convert and separate herself from all she knew and loved for her future is inspiring—not just for her daughter.

"Not long ago, I asked my mother, 'How did you agree to go through all of that?!', and she simply replied: 'For your daughters, you would do anything in life, right? Wouldn't you choose to get up each morning even when you have no strength? So it's clear to me. I love my people, even though I wasn't born into them, and I will love my country until my last day. I'm happy and proud of this choice,'" she said, moving her daughter to emotion. "It was as impactful as a punch to the gut. A perfect message for these times, the power of choice," she concludes.