Reading Response for November 2

   Out of these readings, I found Yitz "Y-Love" Jordan to be very thought provoking. At first I was taken back when discovering he was not born Jewish, it made me question his authenticity. I was also taken back when he mentioned the money he was making and how he is bigger in Jerusalem than in America; both of these comments made me question his intentions. but when it came down do it, and after listening to him speak more, I started to feel better about him. It was obvious that his feelings towards Judaism were innate and something always inside of him, so maybe he was acting upon natural feelings. He converted because he feels so strongly about his personal faith; converting to Judaism is a tough process that isn't for the weary. In the end, he may have came off wrong at first, but his message prevails: he is trying to spread the goodness of his religion, and in doing so, he very well could help non-practicing Jews be a little more religious. Helping others on their spiritual journeys is one of the best ventures a religious person can take on.
    The Sabreen Group was also really cool. I enjoy how they can't really be placed into a genre and are influenced by classical oriental arabic music all the way to Jazz. They also utilize traditional Palestinian sounds which further promotes their message. They are able to take some of their local traditions and mix them with others, and produce a sound that picks up the residue of many influences. Doing so could be a model for what their message in the political realm could be. Most importantly, it gives them a voice that is different from any other, and makes them stand out.