My favorite things about being Jewish are the traditions like eating doughnuts on Hanukkah, dipping apples in honey, and the idea of doing Mitzvot. I also like all of my Jewish friends. Overall to me, Judaism just means keeping traditions alive, eating good foods and being a good person. I definitely love all of those things!

Being Jewish also teaches me that you have to persevere when things get tough. Being Jewish isn’t always easy. There are a lot kids and adults that there that are anti-Semitic. So, I have to make sure that I stand strong, and be the better person. Also, I have to teach people about our religion and culture so they know we are just like everyone else.

I learned a lot about myself in Sheva. Preparing for this day was tough and a lot of extra hard work, but, I now know when I put my mind to something I can do it.

Mitzvah Project: I was a volunteer in the Take on Sports baseball teams. I helped a girl with special needs play baseball and have fun. When she was up to bat I would help her swing, and show her how to run around the bases. When our team was out in the field, I would teach her how to catch a ball and where to throw it when trying to get an out. This is my second year working with Take on Sports. I really love working with my friend and helping her out. She and I have created a relationship that makes playing baseball fun. I feel like I get to help her do something that she enjoys. She deserves to play baseball the way any other child would. I hope to continue doing this until I go to college.

I will continue my Jewish journey by going to Temple on the High Holy Days, observing all of the holidays with my family, continue to volunteer my time helping kids with physical challenges play baseball, and will always work to be a better person. Also, I might look into joining BBYO, and Jewish fraternity when I get to college.

Mikah is the son of Anthony and Brooke Amo. He is the brother of Lucy and Nora Amo. He is the grandson of Barbara and Steve Frank of Hilton Head, SC and Penny and Louie Amo of Rome, NY. Send notes of mazel tov.