We had a whirlwind of a weekend! But so much fun! 
This is a huge milestone in a young Jewish person's life. Once they turn 13 years old they are considered to have transitioned into the adult community both socially and spiritually. The idea is not that a 13 year old is an adult in every sense of the word, but is now responsible for their actions and knows the difference between right and wrong. Many months are spent studying for this day. It is most common for the celebrant to learn the entire haftarah (a reading from the Prophets, read along with the weekly Torah portion), including its traditional chant, and recite that. In some congregations, the celebrant reads the entire weekly torah portion, or leads part of the service, or leads the congregation in certain important prayers.
Elana did awesome! I just couldn't believe how she got right up there on Saturday morning services and lead the congregation with such self-assurance and pride. She was a fantastic speaker and so eloquent. I can see that she would be able to link religious ideals and philosophies in her head...but to be able to explain them out loud as well, in words she wrote herself, was so very impressive and touching. As one who has always had varying views on scripture and organized religion, I could see that she truly had a strong link to her beliefs and unwavering faith.
What a special family! And that is coming from me who has a really special family...so you know they have met high standards for qualification! Wes and Shelley have brought up two
extraordinary children, Elana-13 and Seth-18, whom are both beautiful, talented, well spoken, and wise beyond thier years...which is no doubt an relflection of the beautiful people Shelley and Wes are as well. Elana really looks up to Seth and they have such a sweet bond...every time I turned around they were laughing with each other or hugging and wiping away joyful tears from their eyes. Seth even sang Elana a song, playing guitar and harmonica at the same time, wishing her to stay forever young. Talk about a tear jerker!
extraordinary children, Elana-13 and Seth-18, whom are both beautiful, talented, well spoken, and wise beyond thier years...which is no doubt an relflection of the beautiful people Shelley and Wes are as well. Elana really looks up to Seth and they have such a sweet bond...every time I turned around they were laughing with each other or hugging and wiping away joyful tears from their eyes. Seth even sang Elana a song, playing guitar and harmonica at the same time, wishing her to stay forever young. Talk about a tear jerker! 
Moreover, the party was awesome! We had such a great time dancing with our streamers, tambourines and bead necklaces. There was so much dancing, traditional and Western, that there was never a dull moment. I could have sat and watched all the kids for hours! I only hope to have children like the children in this tight knit community...who can respect and appreciate each other (and their parents) and know how to have FUN! My only regret is that we didn't get to sightsee any. Josh's regret is that he didn't get any Chicago style pizza or hotdogs. Yeah...I could have chowed down on some Chiacago style food, too. We even joke often about opening a Chicago style everything restaraunt. Hmmm...maybe someday!
***Have a wonderful week!***
1 comment:
Sounds like you had a blast! Mazel Tov!!! :)
Post a Comment