Well, I made it. I’m now officially a Jewish adult. The first thing I want to do is to welcome everybody who came here today. It means a lot to me that all of you were able to be here at this special moment when I become a Bar Mitzvah. My Bar Mitzvah means a lot to me, because it is a major step in my life. Now that I am an adult, I’m supposed to take on greater responsibility, morals and beliefs. These responsibilities include learning, respecting and listening to God, and doing good deeds, which are called mitzvahs. I think helping the homeless is one of the most important mitzvahs because it not only helps another person but it also makes you become a better person. I am going to help the homeless at a program next month at temple by helping to prepare and serve dinner for them. Now that I’m 13, I need to do these things on my own behalf, instead of being led to do them like a child. It’s also meaningful and special because I can finally culminate all that I’ve learned over the past 5 months into this special once in a lifetime opportunity. I’ve been learning and going to Jewish school since I was little, and I can’t stop now. There’s a lot more to learn, and in this sense, the Bar Mitzvah is just a stepping stone. I remember the first meeting I had with the Cantor. The first meeting with him was about 5 months ago. At that time, my Bar Mitzvah seemed so far away. But now, it’s happening…and almost over.
There are so many people I want to thank. First off, I would like to thank my tutor, Greg, Cantor Mark, all my teachers at Hebrew school, and Rabbi Bender. They all helped me through my training and tutoring and without them I woudln’t feel so good standing here today. Secondly, I would like to thank all my friends and family especially my grandparents and those who came from Ohio, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Texas, and even Orange County!!! (hahaha). Finally, I would like to thank, of course, my parents. Without them, this whole Bar Mitzvah wouldn’t be possible. They’ve always been supportive and loving of me this whole long way through. I love you. Thank you to you all.
Austin Diamond 