Our parents and godparents simply pointed us in a particular direction. Confirmation is where we confirm that direction for ourselves. They are instructed to see to it that their godchild knows the Creed, Lord's Prayer and Ten Commandments, be instructed in the church Catechism and then be Confirmed. Of course, these days it is more the parents' responsibility, as the role of godparents is now often ceremonial. The Church requires that Confirmation should be sought by those who wish to become members.
Confirmation is the means by which a person becomes a full member of the church.
It is also a special occasion when that person is spiritually strengthened. To confirm is to strengthen. So not only do we publicly confirm, and take upon ourselves the promises made on our behalf at Baptism, but through the Holy Spirit we are confirmed, or strengthened, in the truth of those promises. The candidate prayerfully studies the Bible truths contained in the Catechism, accepts them to the degree they are able, and the congregation joins to pray for them. In this way the candidate is spiritually strengthened.