On July 20th, the 17th of Tammuz, we begin a period of time known as The Three Weeks. This is a great period of mourning for the Jewish people.

At the second Passover Seder, we began the Counting of the Omer. There is deeper meaning to be discovered even within counting.

The Fast of Gedalia is a minor fast that occurs the day after Rosh Hashanah. Its meaning in Jewish history is major.

Between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur are the Days of Awe. They are the Ten Days between when G-d has determined our fate and when G-d will seal our fate for the year to come.

The Counting of the Omer occurs between Passover and Shavuot. But, this period is about more than just counting.

The Tenth day of the month of Tevet is a minor fast day for the Jewish people.

The holiday of Shavuot is one of the three major Festivals in the Jewish calendar.

Rabbi Akiva was one of the most prominent teachers of his time and continues to be one of the most prominent and celebrated teachers today.

Parsha Bamidbar is chock full of metaphorical lessons that we can easily apply to modern times.

I think it's time to take the Bar and Bat Mitzvah celebration back to its roots. Let's remember what we are celebrating and reconsider the best way to celebrate.