One day, upon reflection, I saw the repetition of a pattern: there was a consistency of Jewish people impacting my life in a very unique way. The wonderful people I write about in "Shalom" all call themselves "Jewish" and breathe life, in one way or another, through this filter - whether it be religion, ethnicity, ritual, or family. "Shalom" is a memoir, an intimate portrait of chapters of my life and those that live it with me. Portraits, like silent meditations, allow us to be introspective about our nuances and complexities, reflecting the shadows and brightness of our souls. Ultimately, "Shalom" is about humanity, inviting all of those who read these stories - whether or not they are Jewish - to reflect upon their own lives as members of the human tribe.