Sarah Hurwitz: From Writing For The White House To Her Own Journey With Judaism

“Here All Along” gives insight into author Sarah Hurwitz’s journey with Judaism.

COURTESY OF SARAH HURWITZ

Sarah Hurwitz has an impressive resume.

She was the head speechwriter for Michelle Obama through the first lady’s eight years in the White House. Before working for Mrs. Obama, she was a senior speechwriter for President Barack Obama, and in 2008, she was chief speechwriter for Hillary Clinton on her presidential campaign.

Hurwitz sat down with “City Lights” host Lois Reitzes while on tour earlier this month. She described herself as the quintessential lapsed Jew, until at age 36 she experienced a transformative connection with Judaism.

Her new book “Here All Along – Finding Meaning, Spirituality, and a Deeper Connection to Life – in Judaism (after finally choosing to look there)” contains insight, history and a humorous touch.

“I think there are so many people out there that are looking at values that secular society offers, which is sort of this, ‘You do you, as long as you don’t hurt people’ or ‘do what makes you feel good’ and they’re thinking that this isn’t really deep. This won’t lead to a very meaningful life, and they’re looking for something bigger. I want people to see what Judaism has to offer,” Hurwitz said.