Early on I saw the repression and idolatry of Stalinism, and when it cracked, I was open to religion again.
To change, to convert? Why bother?
I have ended as a Reform Rabbi, grateful to Christianity for so many good things.
It's more fun to watch without joining in.
My mother was a modern woman with a limited interest in religion. When the sun set and the fast of the Day of Atonement ended, she shot from the synagogue like a rocket to dance the Charleston.
I didn't want to be on the losing side. I was fed up with Jewish weakness, timidity and fear. I didn't want any more Jewish sentimentality and Jewish suffering. I was sickened by our sad songs.