Gil, Today marks a day of transition, when you become an adult member of the Jewish community. Leading Shabbat morning services is a significant achievement, which is the end result of your months of study and practice. You are now part of a wonderful heritage that has been passed down from generation to generation for thousands of years.

I know it was a challenge learning to chant your Torah and Haftarah, but you showed great perseverance and persistence. I admire the way you accepted your responsibility and worked diligently to achieve this important goal. I am extremely proud of your accomplishments and of the person you have become.

Your Torah portion focuses on plans for building the Mishkan – the Tabernacle. It’s very fitting that you received a parasha with blueprints for construction, since you have been building impressive Lego structures of cities and trains and Star Wars spaceships since you were very little. You have an aptitude for architecture and construction, in addition to creativity and imagination. I hope that you continue to nurture and develop your talents to invent and create something remarkable that makes a difference in this world. And I have no doubt that you will do just that.

You have had many aspirations since you were little. From truck driver to Astronaut to Lego engineer, you have always had big dreams and many plans for your future. You have charm, charisma, and leadership qualities. Wherever your path leads you, I wish for you that you always have the courage and conviction to do the right thing. That honor, integrity and truthfulness be the source of your inspiration. Always do your best and aspire to be the best that you can be. Remember to be kind and generous to others along the way, for they will be kind and generous to you in return. Remember to stop and smell the roses every now and then, and celebrate your accomplishments.

Always remember that life is not about how much you have, but about what you do with what you have. Life is not about the “things” we accumulate. Life is about everyday miracles of love, friendship, family, valuable work, and a sense of how precious it all is.

I named you Gil in the hope that your life will be filled with joy and happiness, but you have brought more joy and happiness to my life than you will ever know. On this day, I feel very proud and very fortunate to be your mom. I love you more than words can say.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank a few people. I would like to thank Cantor Doron and Rabbi Corey for their amazing support, wisdom, and endless patience. And I would like to thank my husband Lee for assuming the role of fatherhood so naturally and whole-heartedly, and becoming the best role model for Gil any child could ever hope for. Lee, your unconditional love and commitment has made us become a wonderful, loving family. Thank you.