Episode Transcript
[00:00:02] Welcome back to new jewish dad. I'm Jacob Sager, father of five. Today we're exploring the identity shift that happens when you are becoming a father. It's a transition that touches every part of who you are.
[00:00:15] In the Torah, we see Moses undergo a major identity shift. He goes from being a prince of Egypt to a shepherd and then to the leader of the jewish people. But it's when he becomes a father that we see a more personal transformation. The names he gives his sons, Gershom and Eliezer, reflect his experiences and his growing connection to his people. This shows us that how fatherhood this shows us how fatherhood can reshape our understanding of who we are and our place in the world. Becoming a father is more than just a new role, its a shift in how you see yourself and how others see you. You might find yourself thinking differently about your responsibilities, your priorities, and your place in the community. Things that seemed important before might take a backseat to your new identity as a father.
[00:01:03] This shift can also affect your relationship with Judaism. You might feel a stronger connection to traditions, or you might question how to balance your personal beliefs with the role of passing on jewish heritage.
[00:01:15] It's common to feel a mix of excitement and anxiety about this change. You're not just responsible for yourself anymore, and that can be both empowering and overwhelming. I remember when I first started seeing myself as a father to be. It wasnt just when I heard the news. It was this gradual process. I started noticing other parents more, thinking about my own childhood and imagining what kind of father I wanted to be with each of my children. This shift happened again, but in different ways. My identity as a father expanded and evolved like rings on a tree. I was growing outward and greater and bigger and deeper and more steadfast into who I am.
[00:02:00] Here are three things you can do this week to explore this identity shift. First, write down three ways you think becoming a father might change you. Second, talk to your own father or a father figure who you love and respect about how parenthood changed them.
[00:02:17] Third, think about a jewish value that's important to you. How might it take on new meaning as a father?
[00:02:24] As you go through this identity shift, remember that it's a journey, not a destination. Your identity as a father will keep evolving. Embrace the changes, ask questions, and know that you're a part of a long tradition of jewish fathers, figuring it out as they go. This is Jacob Sager wishing you clarity and confidence as you grow into your new identity.
