The Bat Mitzvah Girl
November 02, 2008
My daughter is lovely, and she was lovely at her Bat Mitzvah. She chanted the Hebrew perfectly, she read her sermon at the right pitch and volume so that the congregation of friends, family, and congregants could hear her every word as she reflected on the Noah story and God’s covenant with man that he would never send a flood again (rainbows are a sign of this covenant); and that God commanded man to not murder, not eat a live animal, and to be fruitful and multiply. She was poised and graceful and intelligent.
And the two blessings that she received from the two rabbis who were there were so insightful about this wonderful young woman, and showed how she is appreciated by all who know her. One commented that she is an open, honest, caring person; and the other that she is a like a tent, for she is open and friendly, and providing the warmth of a tent to all.
Yes, during the service I could focus on this wonderful girl who is my daughter. I was with her and for her, and there were tears of pride in my eyes, not pain.
A friend’s father told me that she is stunning. Indeed, inside and out.
Wishing her happiness and fulfillment, and a long joyous life.
Congratulations! Well done your little daughter. You made her, and she learned well. Beautiful inside and out a bonus.
Posted by: Duchess | November 02, 2008 at 02:14 PM
I'm glad you were able to find joy in your daughters special day in spite of all the challenges.
Posted by: Christine | November 02, 2008 at 03:57 PM
Duchess, she is always herself, and in the circumstances, that is a tremendous accomplishment. Her sweetness is as strong as taffy, and as tough.
Christine, I am so glad I sat in the front row and could not be distracted. I focused on her, and how she really has become her own person, which is essentially what the ceremony celebrates.
Posted by: Laura of Rebellious Thoughts of a Woman | November 02, 2008 at 04:53 PM
Well, it seems it is the week to be proud of young daughters. Thank you for your lovely sentiment and spuring me to recall such moments in each of my own daughter's lives.
That said, thank goodness for such moments, yes? As time marches on the more tumultous scenes of their many growing pains will fade in our memories and only these lovely moments will remain.
Judith
Posted by: Judith | November 03, 2008 at 08:12 AM
Congratulations on raising a wonderful and beautiful daughter. She's surely the reflection of her wonderful and beautiful mother. :)
Posted by: Midlife Slices | November 03, 2008 at 08:43 AM
How proud you must be of her! Congratulations, and I'm so glad you were able to be present for her and not let your ex ruin the ceremony for you.
Posted by: JC | November 03, 2008 at 11:32 AM
Judith, we need something to hold onto beyond our love because love, when unfed, can wither. Even mothers have thresholds where self-preservation kicks in.
I even have a fun memory, when she asked: Why don't you dye your hair any more, the blonde was nice?" Was that a commpliment entwined in a criticism? Truly, always saying what she thinks.
Midlife Slices, thank you thank you thank you.
JC, he tried, but at times we are truly able to rise above the negative forces around us and recognize only the good.
Posted by: Laura of Rebellious Thoughts of a Woman | November 03, 2008 at 07:52 PM