But this Time We Sang

Sugar Land, Texas doesn’t have many Jews. I’m one of just seven Jewish students at my school, most of whom aren’t religious. I was raised Reform, but after my Bat Mitzvah, I lost touch with Jewish life—until last year.

My dad saw an ad on Facebook for a local CTeenU course. I signed up. I went to the first class, attended an event, and suddenly I was part of something bigger.

In just one year, our chapter grew from 4–6 teens to 15+ at some events. I’ve made my best friends here. Our bi-weekly CTeen Café became a space where we comforted each other during a rise in antisemitism. I was honored to become Vice President of our first leadership board.

When it was time to register for the Shabbaton, there was no question—I had to go.

That weekend changed me. From late-night kosher snack picnics to lighting candles together, I felt bonded with girls from across the world—from Germany to Uruguay. It was the first time I truly felt the magic of Judaism.

On the subway, a rabbi sang for Israel. In Times Square, we chanted “Am Yisrael Chai.” At the Ohel, I wrote my first letter to the Rebbe.

And I thought: Eighty years ago, Jews were packed into trains heading toward death. Now, we fill subway cars with joy, strength, and life.

That weekend was the best of my life. It deepened my connection to Judaism and to Hashem. Thank you, CTeen, for changing my life.