Journey to Becoming a Rabbi

The speaker shares their unexpected journey to becoming a rabbi, starting from a Jewish upbringing in Chicago. Initially considering other career paths, a year in Cambridge and discussions with friends led to a realization of a deep interest in theology. Despite initial doubts about worthiness, the speaker pursued rabbinical studies. They discuss the challenges of working with the Jewish community, emphasizing the importance of love and commitment over personal liking.

What was the narrator's initial perception of becoming a rabbi?

• They were pressured by family to become a rabbi.

• They were indifferent about becoming a rabbi.

• They never thought they would become a rabbi.

• They always wanted to be a rabbi.

Which of the following was NOT one of the narrator's initial career options?

• Joining the Peace Corps

• MFA at The Iowa Writers' Workshop

• PhD in Philosophy

• Becoming a rabbi

What activity did the narrator engage in with their friends in Cambridge?

• Starting a business

• Traveling around Europe

• Discussing theology and metaphysics

• Playing sports

Who influenced the narrator to consider becoming a rabbi?

• A rabbi they met

• A professor

• A Jesuit priest friend

• Their parents

What realization did the narrator have about their worthiness to become a rabbi?

• They felt they were always worthy.

• They realized it's about commitment, not worth.

• They thought worthiness was irrelevant.

• They believed only perfect people could be rabbis.

What is described as the hardest part of being a rabbi?

• Learning Hebrew

• Dealing with the Jewish community

• Leading prayers

• Writing sermons

What did the narrator's professor say about liking and loving the Jewish people?

• Neither liking nor loving them is necessary.

• You don't have to like them, just love them.

• Liking them is more important than loving them.

• You must like and love them equally.

How does the narrator describe the Jewish community?

• Easy-going and relaxed

• Stiff-necked and demanding

• Indifferent and uninvolved

• Conservative and traditional

What metaphor does the narrator use to describe the challenge of leading the Jewish community?

• Building a bridge

• Crossing a river

• Herding cats

• Climbing a mountain

What does the narrator emphasize as crucial for being a rabbi?

• Perfection and flawlessness

• Commitment and devotion

• Popularity and charisma

• Wealth and influence