Leah’s Bat Mitzvah: November 26th, 2022

Despite my worries, fears and reservations, we celebrated our baby girl’s Bat Mitzvah on November 26th, 2022. It was a beautiful, big, magical celebration of…everything.

To be able to recite Shehecheyanu, a Jewish prayer that acknowledges the miracle of having arrived at a special moment, was everything.

In synagogue, I shared with Leah my wishes for her as she grows:

May you journey with the wind at your back and the sun smiling down upon you. And when into your life some rain falls, may you persevere through your challenges with grace.

May you be present as you journey through life, and find the moments of goodness that exist in each day - even the hard ones.

May you have the compassion to do good - even when no one is watching - and the courage to do what is right - even when it’s not easy.

May your mind, body and spirit stay strong and healthy.

May you always have fulfilling dreams to follow.

May your successes be many, and your mistakes be set down to use as stepping stones on your journey.

May you know you are connected with all living things on this earth, and with its people both past and present.

May you be strengthened by your family, your community, and your ancestors to forge your own path.

May you be surrounded by friends who bring you joy, and with whom you can be your authentic self.

May you be blessed to one day find a love as beautiful as mine and Daddy’s, and, if you choose, to have a family of your own.

May you always have peace in your home and in your heart.