As the festival of lights approaches, I can’t help but reflect on my experiences from last year. I awoke one morning, feeling disoriented and overwhelmed, the scent of fried food lingering in the air. Like the latkes I had prepared, I was burnt out. The candles may have glowed brightly, but I felt dimmed by the stress of the season.
With Hanukkah just around the corner, I find myself filled with excitement for cherished traditions and uplifting stories. This time of year offers so much potential for deeper meaning, yet, like many others, I struggle to navigate the tension between consumerism and the holiday’s true spirit. One evening, after battling crowds for gifts, I had to take a moment to breathe and remind myself that miracles extend beyond just securing a prime parking spot. On another occasion, I found myself stressed while trying to juggle wrapping gifts, preparing food, searching for the menorah, remembering blessings, and resisting the allure of chocolate coins.
Hanukkah has felt like a never-ending game of dreidel—spin, shin, and never win. This year, I must reclaim these eight days and refocus my energy on what truly matters: light. I’m not just speaking about the flames of the menorah, but rather the radiant glow of kindness. In these challenging times, we can illuminate the world with goodwill and compassion.
This time can be extraordinary if we channel the transformative power of light by embracing our responsibilities toward others. We have the chance to bring mindfulness into our actions, offering blessings for humanity. We can pray for those whose needs surpass our own, asking the light of the Hanukkah candles to provide us with perspective.
We can request the light to grant us the strength to care for the sick and suffering, to shine a path toward peace, and to empower us to uphold what is right. We can pray for principles and integrity, as well as for meals shared among the many, hoping for the end of poverty and hunger.
Let us ask that the light reflects in the eyes of our children, symbolizing their potential and promise. We can seek illumination for those who have lost hope, praying they rediscover their faith. We can also request that the light resonates with song, giving us the courage to advocate for those who cannot speak for themselves.
Last year, I awoke feeling like a latke, but each night brings a new opportunity. New gifts await, and fresh stories are to be told. It’s more than just choosing between applesauce and sour cream; it’s about choosing compassion over indifference, connection over isolation, and brilliance over darkness. I have eight nights to look forward to, and countless candles at my disposal. This little light of mine? I’m determined to let it shine, and I invite you to do the same.
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Summary
In this reflective piece, the author shares their journey through the challenges and joys of Hanukkah, emphasizing the importance of kindness and light during the season. They encourage readers to focus on meaningful actions and blessings for others, while also reminding them of the power of hope and compassion.