In The Blink Of An Eye

This is the speech we gave to our daughter at her Bat Mitzvah -

Chana, we’re so proud of you and the woman you’re becoming. We are so excited that today is your Bat Mitzvah!

We would like to speak for a moment about Parsha Ba Midbor – this Parsha begins with a counting of the Jewish people. The simple reason for this counting was to count those who would be called to war. On a deeper level, our Sages explain that this count demonstrated the value of every single individual and how cherished each one is to G-D! G-D wanted a count of the Jewish people because treasures them.

We have, Thank G-D, been blessed with five beautiful children and each one is a treasure. Chana, you’re the leader of our “tribe” of children. Your sisters and brother look up to you and will continue to look to you for your love, support and guidance along the way. We know that it’s not always easy to be the oldest but we want you to know what a great big sister you are!

We’re watching you grow into an amazing woman. A woman who always stands up for what’s right, is considerate and kind and most of all has a love for G-D!

This Bat Mitzvah today, G-D willing, will only be the first of many big simchas (celebrations) in your life. Your Dad and I know that we will blink and you’ll be in college, we will blink and it will be your wedding day and we will blink and it will be your child’s Bar or Bat Mitzvah we will be celebrating.

The time really does go by fast. The days are long but the years fly by! 

We promise to try to remember to take our time with you and to slow down and enjoy our time with you. We look forward, G-D willing, to seeing more of the amazing things you will accomplish throughout your life!

I surprised myself and managed to get through the speech without too many tears.  The party was a big success and the kids had a great time. 

She looks even more grown up to me now that the party is over - Where does the time go?