Guest Post from Morah Alli
I think of how my life could be a huge game of play it forward. For the most part, there is an expectation of something in return. I spend most of my days...working with teenagers. In return, I get a paycheck, but some days...I get so much more.
"You reached your right hand out and saved me." has been this quote that does not leave my mind lately. And while I often reach my hand out, today...I felt it. Not me reaching out, but a student grabbing my hand and making his huge step forward. He's becoming a Bar Mitzvah. For some reason, Matt has always gravitated toward me. He listens to me. He trusts me. He is willing to take on challenges with me.
Apparently Matt's Bar Mitzvah preparation has progressed, but emotionally, he has not found his confidence. Today, my 4th grade class at B'nai Amoona had their Tefillin project celebration, and coincidentally, Matt was to participate in the same service. As I watched him struggle to go into the crowded room, I sensed his apprehension. When I sat down across the room from him, he smiled and immediately joined me. Moments later, his mom asked if I would join him when he was called up to do his participation piece. I agreed. And...as I looked at Matt, I saw it. His smile.
While his hands shook at the Bimah...he followed in the prayerbook with his finger, he sang with me, and he made it! And...while his hands were shaking, I thought "Why shouldn't he shake? Why should he not fear this big step? Why should he not tremble before GOD? Is he showing what all of us secretly feel inside?"
The honor of standing with Matt was overwhelming. My cheeks hurt so much from smiling. It was the type of joy that everyone should have. And...on March 3rd, I will watch, sing, stand, feel joy, and tremble before GOD with Matt as he becomes a Bar Mitzvah.
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