As a mighty oak tree grows from a tiny acorn,
so it is that a man grows from the seedling child.
Time changes us in many ways
yet the constant in our lives, is change.
To read from Torah,
to learn all of the brachot,
to undertake the projects of mitzvot,
to learn to speak publicly from the heart…
These are the gifts of becoming Bar Mitzvah,
the first small steps in fulfilling a destiny yet unwritten–
stepping cautiously into an uncertain future,
a time of opportunity to be shaped by you.
Take what you’ve learned from the lessons taught.
Take what you’ve found when you looked into your heart.
Hold on to the hands which reach out in support.
Hold fast to the ways which lead you higher.
Today, you are a man.
Today, you are a leader of the Tribes of Israel.
Today you stand before us and make us proud.
Take pride in what you’ve done.
Take pride in who you are.
Take pride in the family which loves and supports you.
Be proud yet humble, and always stand tall.
Blessed are you, Adonai, who today brings forth this sapling from the seed, and so too, this man from the child.
