So, I got a "friend request" on Facebook today. I had no idea who this person was, but I saw that I had one friend in common -- a guy that I went to Yeshivat Hakotel with back in the day. I was reluctant to accept the request. After all, how many more neocons with 5 kids living in (pick one) Cedarhurst, Chashmonaim, Raanana or some other Orthodox enclave do I need to be connected to.
But, to my surprise, this fellow was different. Looking at his profile I saw that, of course, he has a daughter ready to go to college. However, he is also interested in "men"! He is active in gay politics in New York and, as they say, v'chulai, v'chulai.
So I wrote on his wall that I was delighted to see that another YK alum was involved in progressive causes and doing real work for inclusion and civil rights. I said that I wished that more of the Kotel boys would be able to see themselves getting involved in making the world a better place for everyone.
He wrote back -- Don't worry, they will!
And I responded -- only if they get out of the echo chamber.
p.s. I am embarrased to say that I still don't remember this fellow... Too bad. Maybe he will visit from NY and come for Shabbos. (or Shabbat)...
I am the boy from Denver Colorado, who was dating Ellen Warshaw..I was friends with Michael Goldberg...Gay and Yeshivat Hakotel. dont mix..it was a personal hell, but I got to the other side with the love of good friends and some amazing families, other people are just idiots...Should I bring Wine for Shabbos
ReplyDeleteJust because someone lives in what would be considered the echo chamber does not mean they don't explore or even cherish ideas outside.
ReplyDeleteLooking forward to many interesting posts..
another YK Alum