First of two parts

I was born in Iran, and I came to the United States when I was six years old.

Being an Iranian-American Jew, I lived in a Persian community in West Los Angeles.

My formative years were spent attending private schools. I am blessed to have entered a field I love.  Working as a physician’s assistant in Inglewood has provided me with a profound, challenging and rewarding experience.

It has allowed me the opportunity to serve in a socially, culturally and diverse economic community. Over the years, I have realized that it is easy to get caught up in the rhythm of life, to forget to pause and truly enjoy all that life has to offer.

I decided to no longer be a spectator on the sidelines of life.

Instead, I would experience all that this incredible world has to offer.

Journey with me as I share stories of the people I have met, lessons learned and how my view of life will forever be changed.

Three of my close friends and I had the pleasure of traveling to France and Israel for an unforgettable adventure.

An exciting 12-day trip, five days in each country, fueled by beautiful sites, great food and remarkable people — and as little sleep as possible to make the most of every moment.

I have to admit, as a Jewish individual, I felt fear, too, being in countries where there have been numerous terrorist attacks.

I felt the vulnerability they live with every day.

But I am truly grateful because it gave me the opportunity to see life through a different lens.

(To be continued)

Ms. Benji may be contacted at orlybenji@gmail.com