The bombshell came when I least expected it.

I remember exactly where I was sitting when my mother broke the news. I was at the dining room table, trying to insert two size AA batteries into a new alarm clock. The alarm clock was pink and had luminous yellow numbering. To this day, those big yellow numbers bring back memories of that dreadful conversation.

“Sara, I have some news for you,” my mother began. From her tone of voice, I knew something big was coming. I was right. “Tatty and I would like you to switch schools. As of seventh grade, you’ll be attending Bais Devorah school. I’m sure you’ll like it there,” she added hopefully.

I stared at my mother in horror, too shocked to say anything.

To read the rest of this story, please buy this issue of Mishpacha or sign up for a weekly subscription.