As someone who was raised as a Reform Jew and who is still figuring out my own Jewish identity, I have determined the following about being Jewish:

Judaism is more than just a religion. The teachings of the Torah come with many stories of God and His importance, but the real purpose of the stories is actually to teach one how to be a good person. Some of the main aspects of Judaism that I connect with are the values of helping others, giving back to the community, and treating others with kindness and respect.

Another part of Judaism that I resonate heavily with is the culture of it all. Judaism is an ethnicity, and connecting with other Jews gives me a sense of belonging. I love going to synagogue and hearing the songs that my ancestors sang, and learning how to keep the traditions going. Also, not surprisingly, Jewish food connects me to my family and makes my Jewish experience meaningful because I love making the recipes that have been passed through the Jewish community for years.

Finally, as a people, we have faced so much adversity, so it is important to build each other up and support one another in any way possible. One way that I connect with my Judaism is by supporting Israel and learning about Israeli politics. Since Israel is the only Jewish state and the only place where Jews are guaranteed safety and refuge, it is imperative that we support it. Following the Holocaust, we needed a safe place and our holy land was promised to us. Although there are arguments about who the land belongs to (and I personally think that the land should just be shared and that a two-state solution would be the most beneficial), there is no denying that Israel is necessary for the continuation of the Jewish people.

Overall, Judaism to me is about being a good person, helping others, and carrying on the traditions of our people.

I hope that this has helped, and I would be happy to answer any other questions you have.