Right Blessing

Joey has always felt different, especially when playing with friends like Adam or sitting with the girls at recess. By age nine, she knows she's not a boy, but telling her family is terrifying. One Shabbat evening, Joey's anxiety builds during the family blessing. Unable to bear being called a boy any longer, she stops the ceremony and shares, "e;I'm not really a boy."e; Her parents listen closely and, after a heartfelt conversation, offer unconditional love. They agree to use "e;she"e; and "e;her"e; for Joey. Though they make mistakes, they do their best, and Joey finally feels seen. At the next Shabbat dinner, she receives the blessing she's always wanted.