All alone

The holidays without my siblings

November 8, 2011

The holidays Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur have recently passed and for me, the holidays were different than they were any other year. This year, I am an only child. My older brother is a senior in college, and my older sister left me for college this fall. Though she wanted to come home for the Jewish New Year, my sister’s college schedule did not allow even a single day off. Certain events you remember with your siblings and when they are not there anymore, it feels different. Not necessarily bad, but different.

Here come the changes.

First: Rosh Hashana meal. My family always serves a delicious meal with apples and honey (of course), homemade applesauce, chicken, brisket, turkey, and my favorite, matza ball soup.

It was odd sitting at my dining room table eating my most beloved food without my sister enjoying it next to me.

It was strange not laughing and joking with her during dinner and it was certainly different realizing for the first time for Rosh Hashana dinner, I was the only child there.

Ready for more changes?

Imagine me, in my specially picked out Rosh Hashana dress for shul, standing there, with my father and mother by my side, but lacking a sister or brother to accompany me. Actually, imagine that for both days of Rosh Hashana services.

It was a little sad not being able to stand next to my sister and enjoy the holiday with her.

Now let’s look a week further to Yom Kippur.

Every Yom Kippur my family and friends consume a plentiful meal (there are a lot of large meals) before the start of the fast. During this meal, once again, my sister wasn’t there with me to stuff down food before it was too late!

Not until the fast began did I realize that I am the only child fasting at home this holiday!

Who will keep me distracted during the day, who will keep me entertained, and who will be by my side being as hungry as ever, just like me?

I did have a good fast and pleasant holidays, but I did notice the absence of my sister, especially during these special events. Though I will now have many experiences without my siblings, I think I should take advantage of the opportunities and view things in a light I have never considered or learn something I have not necessarily taken a great interest in.

My new situations will lead to new discoveries, new knowledge, and new perspectives. A great way to start out the Jewish New Year!

Gabrielle Beacken, 16, attends Randolph High School and is a member of Nu’s teen board.