Blessings for China Punims

Last night was Amanda’s blessing ceremony at Temple. It was Succot and there were tons of kids there. We went into the sanctuary and sat down with the other parents. I sat next to another mom who has 3 daughters from China. The mom and I had just learned recently that her middle daughter and Amanda met at day camp and became great friends. We just laughed that they never mentioned it.

The music started and the kids marched in two by two. I assumed Amanda would be with one of her classmates. Her new friend from camp was in a different Sunday School class. Then we looked back and in came Amanda and her new friend from China. They were holding hands. The other mom and I were thrilled. The girls walked proudly and with confidence. They were directed to go to Rabbi Josh.

After they were blessed, they all sat together and sang songs. Then we all went outside to the Succah and shared cider and donuts under the stars. The moon was almost full.

Later when we got in the car to go home, I asked Amanda what the Rabbi said to them. She told me he asked them where they were from and they both said “China”. Then before his blessing was done, they said Ni Hao (Hello) and Zaijian (Goodbye) at the same time. I thought to myself that this had to be one of the most unique blessings the Rabbi had done and a blessing in itself. For these two lovely young ladies had traveled so far to become be a part of this Temple family. A true miracle for both our families.