Life presents each of us with different home settings and environments. We have been brought up by previous generations to maintain and continue this set of family beliefs and values, which we can in turn call our heritage. This heritage defines and classifies each individual in our multicultural society. Growing up as a young boy, I would annually ask why this night would be different from all other nights. I fast a couple of days each year and can speak fluent Hebrew. My monotheistic views lead me to believe that our one and only God created the world in six days and rested on the seventh. In case my heritage is still a mystery to you, I come from a Jewish background. My background allows me to feel a special connection to all that share my beliefs. Hebrew is the language of the bible as well as the flagship language of Judaism. Hebrew was used as an everyday language until it suddenly died. Two thousand years later, it has now been revived and is among the living languages. Like myself, there are many others who share my enthusiasm and relief that part of my heritage is once again proudly recognized universally among Jews and non-Jews alike.
             Particular backgrounds allow many to feel a special connection to those who share their heritage and beliefs. "A Jewish visitor from the United States or elsewhere feels at once a sense of 'mishpachah'..." ( Comay 68)
             The word 'mishpachah' can be translated into English as meaning 'family'. My Jewish heritage enables me to share mutual sentiments and emotions with family and friends of the Jewish community. Throughout history, Jewish people have been battling long and hard for their survival. The Jewish people have never given up their rights to have their own religion, their own homeland and to be their own nation. The Spanish Inquisition, The Holocaust and the on-going power struggle between Israel and Palestine present clear examples of the resilience and courage o...