Growing up Jewish has meant a lot of things. By thirteen, my bank account was on fire from my bat mitzvah and I was #blessed with eight days of presents every year for Hanukkah. I got to eat some of the most delicious food known to man on holiday's and speaking of holidays, I always had to go to synagogue on those "random" days off in the fall--Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur.
But besides these cultural differences, I've always noticed how my Jewish mom was very different from say, a non-Jewish mom. Here's what I mean:
1. She knows what to do when you're sick: Jewish Penicillin.
Is anybody surprised to learn that the number one medicine is matzah ball soup? Jewish moms believe that matzah ball soup is the cure for headaches, stomach aches, colds, and probably Zika virus. Hopefully, your Jewish mom loves you enough to make you homemade matzah ball soup but if not, the closest deli should do the trick.
2. She is deeply concerned with your love life.
Jewish moms love to meddle. It's sort of their thing. If they can't brag to their friends about their daughter dating a nice Jewish doctor then did they really do their job as a parent? My mom personally discusses my--lack of--love life with her--also Jewish--friends. It's very important.
3. She taught you all about bringing jackets everywhere you go.
Sure it may be July and you live in Florida but that Jewish mom of yours knows that the A/C at the restaurant will be up high and she doesn't want you being chilly. Mom for the win.
4. Your friends are always welcome for dinner.
Living at home when all your friends live alone at college? Your friends will gladly accept an invitation for a home-cooked meal by your Jewish mom. Whether you're 12 or 22, your friends are always welcomed for dinner and if they help clear the table then expect an honorary invite into the family.
5. She guilts you about everything.
Jewish guilt is not a myth. I repeat, Jewish guilt is NOT A MYTH. Since the beginning of time, Jewish moms have been using their guilt to ensure their children are the absolute best. Think of how many Jewish doctors, lawyers, and people in Hollywood there are. They may be on to something...just saying.
6. Did I mention that she really cares about your love life?
Her threats about signing you up for J-Date or J-Swipe are all too real. You know it's a matter of time until you receive messages from unknown suitors who have stumbled across your profile (that's unknown to you). You know she nags you out of love and that's why you let it go on. If you don't have your mom to nag you then who do you have?
7. Your mom gave you your first glass of wine at a young age.
Whether it was at your bat mitzvah or at Passover when you were younger, it's part of the Jewish culture to have wine. If you're jealous you can w(h)ine about it later.
8. She loves you so much that she's willing to meddle and get into your business, out of love.
Jewish moms love to meddle but they also like to help you solve your problems. If your mom hasn't gone down to your school to "have a chat" with a teacher then something isn't right. While it can be annoying you can't help but appreciate how much your Jewish mom does for you and you love her so much for that.
L'Chaim, mom!
