I believe that believing in religion is very important to explore and experience growing up. Religion builds community, love for yourself and love for others. In my family, my mother grew up Christian Orthodox and my father is Jewish. They both allowed me to explore religion on my own and figure out what religion was a fit for me.

When I was in 6th grade my mom told me about the Romanian orthodox church she grew up in. I was very interested in learning about orthodox Christianity. The following Sunday we went to her church for a service. The Orthodox church is very beautiful. I loved the painted glass, the beautiful icons, and the painted ceiling. There was an area where you could light candles for prayer. The service was in Romanian, which I don’t understand, but the beautiful singing from the priest made me feel like I understood it all and I felt connected to the calming environment.

It was one of the most peaceful and most welcoming communities I have ever seen. After the service I talked to the priest and asked about the orthodox faith. The priest told me that being an Orthodox Christian means living a life in the likeness of God, a high power. He said building compassion, being forgiving, and giving to others in need allows you to live closer to God and your true self. I believe that I have cultivated this way of living. Every day I focus on one if not all these values.

Believing in a higher power, in my faith god, helps me be a kind, loving, and an open hearted human. I think that you should believe too.