Tiny Hands
Blessings with tiny hands, blessings are all around you and at times, presented directly in front of you. A baby naming ceremony started out as all the in-home ceremonies I created and officiated. I was lead to the room in the home it would take place. The big sister often came into the room to speak to me. She was adorable and curious about every detail. Of course, I not only enjoyed the company, but I also enjoyed her energized personality and many questions.
We were going to use her grandfather’s tallis, tallit prayer shawl to wrap her baby sister. The matching yarmulke had a raised embroidered, sparkling design. I shared with this precious big sister how special this kippah was and how when her grandfather was young, he wore it. Her tiny hands touched it sensing the specialness and connection to her grandfather. With joy, she allowed me to place it on her head. Her grandfather was nearby and as they connected eyes, sharing big smiles and giggles.
I continued to set up another key element of the Jewish custom. Blessings of tiny hands touched quickly and followed with a question. “What is this?” So, I responded, “its the Challah Bread.” Try saying it, “Challah.” I proceeded to tell her, “after her sister’s naming ceremony, we will bless the Challah Bread together and then we get to taste and enjoy it.”
The family gathered, baby sister received G-d’s Blessings along with her extra special Hebrew Name under the baby Chuppah surrounded by family. Her big sister mentioned above could not read, so her older cousin stepped in and read her Big Sister Prayer. One of the many highlights.
After the beautiful, memorable baby-naming completed, I followed through on the Blessing of the Challah Bread per Jewish tradition. I found the Big Sister and she followed my lead as we placed our hands on the bread to bless it. Time stopped as I treasured this unscheduled moment.