A Jewish Journey of Identity and Courage

Chapter 12 Emma

My legs felt weak as I stood before the large Torah, open on the table in front of me. It was much bigger than I remembered from Karen’s Bat Mitzvah. Rabbi Meir held the microphone, waiting for me to begin my Torah reading. I took a deep breath, then another. I recalled what David had said: no one would notice if I made a mistake—except the Rabbi, of course. That thought helped calm my nerves. I started my Torah reading in a trembling voice, guiding my silver finger along the words just as I had practiced. I didn’t recognize all the words, but thankfully, I knew it all by heart. Mom, Dad, and Karen stood beside me. I think Mom was even more excited than I was, her tears flowing freely. Dad managed to keep his emotions in check. As I reached the end, I lifted my gaze from the book and breathed a sigh of relief. I did it! Mom and Dad enveloped me in tight hugs, blessing me. This was one of the most exhilarating moments I’d ever experienced. When the ceremony concluded, Olivia and Bethany approached me for photos. “I didn’t understand a word you were saying,” Bethany said with a smile, “but you looked really nice!” “Thanks,” I replied, hugging her tightly. I was thrilled to have that reading behind me; now I could truly enjoy my Bat Mitzvah. Happy music played in the background. “And you didn’t get confused at all!” Olivia exclaimed, then whispered, “Now we eat!” “Now we eat,” I confirmed, and we headed out together, just like we used to when we were younger.

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