A Jewish Journey of Identity and Courage

Chapter 2 David

“Great game, guys!” Joey, our coach, said, and we all cheered. As he stepped out of the locker room, his phone rang, and he answered the call. I barely got to play today. Coach put me in for just a minute and a half at the end of the third quarter, so I cheered enthusiastically for my team from the bench, as teammates are expected to do. I stripped off my shirt and tossed it into my bag, then lay back on the bench by my locker. I hadn’t even broken a sweat, but I knew my mom would want to wash it anyway. “Maybe next time,” Chen said, giving my bare shoulder a friendly pat. His arm was red and slick with sweat; he had played well, scoring two three-pointers in the first quarter. Thanks to him, we maintained our lead throughout the game against St. Patrick’s School. “Did you see the reel with the Zionists in my story?” I heard Marcus’ voice on the other side of the wall. I froze. My heart was pounding. “Yes!” Jimmy answered with enthusiasm. “This is awesome! All Jews should experience this.” “I didn’t see it, what was in it?” I identified Thomas’ voice. Thomas is always pushing himself because he is trying to make Marcus and Jimmy make him a part of their posse. Everyone wants to be in their posse because they are the most popular kids in Washington Middle School. “They are chasing this Zionist around London, and he is running like a mouse,” Marcus shouted, and I knew he wanted to make sure I hear him. “They should do this here as well,” Jimmy added. “Hush… David Levitt is here,” Thomas whispered, and my heart

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