The Adult Bat Mitzvah Girl

Ok, before I begin this latest post, I thought I'd share a couple of things that I love about my life in Tel Aviv. I love walking everywhere! I have two new pairs of very comfortable walking shoes, so that makes life more enjoyable as well (I highly recommend investing in a pair of Naot or Teva, I've been wearing them for years). Also, I'm drinking a fresh juice that I just got on the street, mmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm!!!!!

So, when I was back home in the ATL a month ago, I also got to attend the Bat Mitzvah of my Mom. When I'd tell people here in Israel that I was going to my Mom's Bat Mitzvah, I'd often get a look of puzzlement on their faces. They'd say, "Why would she do a thing like that?" Most people I interact with here in Israel are secular Jews and it's difficult for them to understand the fulfillment that comes with learning how to read Hebrew, studying Torah and attaining this rite of passage in Jewish life.

Anyway, back to my Mom. I was so proud to see her up there on the bima, chanting her Torah portion flawlessly and following the text with the yad (special pointer that you read Torah with). Growing up as a Reform Jew in Montgomery, Alabama, it was not common for girls or boys to perform the Bar/Bat Mitzvah ceremony. About ten years ago my Mom's brother, Uncle Julian, also did an adult Bar Mitzvah and I guess my Mom realized that her time had come to be called to the Torah as well. Better late than never, the saying goes. In less than one year's time, Mom learned how to read a new alphabet and chant Torah. Also, the event was extra special because Mom was able to share it with a lifelong friend, Marlene Reeves, who did an amazing job as well.

I feel so lucky that I was able to be with my family for this occasion. Mazel tov Ema! The picture is of us outside the temple before services.