The bar or bat mitzvah ceremony isn’t a mandatory rite of passage. By Jewish law, a boy reaches adulthood when he turns 13 and a girl at 12, no ceremony required. The very lack of necessity makes such an effort even more remarkable as a public affirmation of Jewish identity and commitment; not to mention a reason for a big party and many gifts.
As I continue to struggle in my quest to become fluent in Spanish, I know I will never be able to master the Hebrew language. So while I believe beautiful ceremonies and traditions are the best part of any organized religion, I am skipping them all and going right to the party and gifts. You are all invited. Probably will take place about a year from Shavuot.