My Conversion Story Journal

February 2, 2026

With all the hostages returned, both alive and dead, and the last service held in hostage square, it is a blessing to celebrate the new year for trees: Tu Bishvat. Trees symbolize growth, renewal, wisdom, connection, and eternal life. I love how every holiday leads to the Torah. The Torah itself is called, "the Tree of Life."

The event that I went to today had the 7 species and the five fruits: dates, olives, grapes, pomegranates, and figs. We talked about the meaning of each of these. I always love the ladies events that go over the meanings of different things like these five fruits and how we can apply that meaning to our spiritual growth. I wish there was more time to reflect during those learnings instead of going through them so quickly.

I have always loved trees, and I know that growing up, I would have loved this holiday even more than now. There is so much to learn from trees that it is not surprising that the new year for trees is a celebrated holiday. When I was younger, I used to talk to the trees. I was sure that they were listening to me. It wasn't until I was much older that I learned that talking to you plants makes them grow faster and healthier, because they do listen.

Roots: May your roots in Torah be strong and deep. The Torah is what nurtures you and keeps you from falling over. We have deep ancestral roots: Abraham and Sarah, Issac and Rabecca, and Jacob and Leah and Rachel. Our roots connect us to the land of Israel, to our faith, to our traditions, to the Torah, and to one another.

Trunk: Grow strong in Torah knowledge. Like the rings of tree trunk, each year mark a new chapter in learning Torah. Once you finish reading, start again and learn all over again, so when the winds of life blow, you may stand strong in your faith and hope.

Branches: Reach always towards G-d and he will sustain you. The more you reach for wisdom, understanding, and knowledge, the fuller you will become. You will feel closer to G-d and have a full relationship with him.

Leaves: Clothe yourself in Torah study and may your love of G-d be beautiful and a safe place to rest for others.

Fruit: May your words, deeds, and actions leave a sweet taste and memory on the world around you: your family, your friends, your descendants, and those you may never meet, but touch anyway.

My the next year be full of the fruit of learning Torah, and may the air of peace fill the world.