My Nonprofit Reviews

In May of 2008, I was 21 years old and on the brink of divorce, after only five months of marriage with a guy I'd know for almost two years, and whom I believed I'd be married to for the rest of my life. I am very fortunate in that it became poignantly clear so early on that the marriage was not going to work out, however, my life had been turned upside down, and everything I thought I wanted and needed was seemingly being taken away from me against my will and there was nothing I could do to stop it. I was heartbroken, angry, scared, and confused. During those tumultuous months I began to question what was really important to me. Where I wanted to go. What type of life I wanted to lead. I was advised by a Rabbi and mentor of mine to go and learn for a week at a Bais Chana retreat being held in the Berkshires, CT. I was a bit hesitant at first, because I knew that if the experience was a good one, I would likely have to face some harsh realities and make many difficult changes. I was also concerned that perhaps I'd be the only girl at the program in a situation like my own. I remember speaking to Hinda Leah (the program director) on the phone before applying. I gave her a basic run-through of who I was and what I was looking to get from the program, "So you think I should come?," I asked, "It will change your life," she replied. I felt that was a pretty bold statement, and decided to test her theory and go, and I am forever grateful that I did. Once there, I immediately knew it was where I needed to be. The women were warm, the grounds where the retreat was held were breathtakingly beautiful, and the classes were intellectually stimulating and soul-stirring. There was an air of unity and strength amongst the women that was palpable the whole week long. I met so many powerful people, staff and student alike, and made strong connections with many woman, of whom I'm still close with today. My experience at Bais Chana was a turning point for me in my life, and gave me the strength and clarity I needed, not only to move forward and make those changes, but to embrace them.

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