Gemotions

The Shabbat candles flickered, casting dancing shadows on the walls of the dining room. My brother, Ethan, usually so laid-back, had announced he was becoming more observant of Judaism.

He started rising early to attend synagogue, even on weekdays. He began to wear a yarmulke and tzitzit, which he was at first self-conscious about, but then he came to wear them with pride. He started studying the Torah with a fervour I hadn’t witnessed in years. His usual slouch was replaced with an erect posture, and his tone of voice was serious.

He started keeping kosher. He learned the prayers, and the rhythm of the life he was now living became his new normal. He volunteered to help prepare meals for the homeless and became a regular participant in the synagogue's social programs. The change was remarkable, and he was completely and utterly at ease.