Tu B’Av, also known as the Jewish holiday of love, is celebrated on August 18. To honor this special day, I reached out to Boston couples to hear their unique love stories and how they met. The responses poured in, showcasing a variety of ways in which love blossomed in the Jewish community. From chance meetings at events to shared interests and deep connections, these couples have shown that love knows no bounds.
One couple, Robert and Ron, met at an LGBT/Jewish mixer organized by Keshet and CJP. Their initial conversation over hummus and cosmopolitans sparked a deep connection that eventually led to marriage, children, and a shared life in the suburbs. Their love story highlights the power of community and shared values in bringing people together.
Steve and Jeri’s love story began at a happy hour event at a local bar in Boston. Introduced by a mutual friend, they instantly clicked and went on to build a life together, raising children and creating a strong family bond. Their journey from a chance meeting to a lifelong partnership showcases the role of friendship and support in fostering lasting relationships.
Alison and David’s love story started at a Purim party at Harvard Hillel, where they bonded over a game of foosball. Despite initial challenges of finding each other in a crowded room, their connection was undeniable, leading to a series of dates and eventually, a committed relationship. Their story highlights the power of persistence and serendipity in finding true love.
Steve and Lynne’s love story began with a chance encounter during a fundraising drive for the Israel Emergency Fund. What started as a simple donation quickly evolved into a connection that lasted through the years, eventually leading to marriage and a shared commitment to supporting Israel and the Jewish community. Their story showcases the unexpected ways in which love can find its way into our lives.
Maya and Sam’s love story is a tale of second chances and persistence. Despite an initial fizzle in their early dates, they found their way back to each other through mutual friends and shared experiences. Their evolving relationship, marked by thoughtful gestures and shared interests, highlights the importance of communication and understanding in building a lasting connection.
Yaffa and Ravid’s love story began in their teenage years, during a chance meeting at a USY international convention. Despite living miles apart, they stayed connected through letters and calls, eventually reuniting in adulthood and building a life together. Their journey from friendship to romance showcases the enduring power of shared experiences and mutual understanding in fostering love.
Each of these couples has a unique love story that speaks to the diverse ways in which love can enter our lives. From chance encounters to shared interests, their journeys highlight the beauty of finding a soulmate and building a life together. As we celebrate Tu B’Av, let these stories remind us of the power of love and the joy that comes from connecting with another soul in a meaningful way.