Updated: Sep. 28, 2020
Originally Published: Dec. 20, 2016
Last year, as Hanukkah approached, I found myself in the throes of what one might call a festive fatigue. I awoke one morning, eyes bleary and a lingering scent of frying oil clinging to my clothes, reminiscent of the latkes I had prepared for dinner. Despite the vibrant glow of the menorah, I felt utterly drained.
As the Festival of Lights draws near, I’m often filled with an exhilarating sense of tradition and storytelling. This time of year brims with potential meaning, yet I, like many, find myself grappling with the imbalance that the season can bring. The struggle to merge the allure of materialism with the deeper mysteries of the holiday is palpable. One evening, after tirelessly hunting for gifts in crowded stores, I found myself needing to pause and take a few deep breaths, reminding myself that miracles extend beyond finding a coveted parking spot.
Hanukkah often feels like an endless, frustrating game of dreidel—spin, shin, and never win. This year, I’m determined to reclaim those eight nights before they consume all my energy, redirecting my focus on what the holiday truly signifies: light. I’m not merely referring to the flickering flames of the menorah but rather to the illuminating power of kindness. In dark and challenging times, we can brighten the world through acts of compassion and goodwill.
This season offers us a unique opportunity to harness the extraordinary power of light by focusing on heartfelt actions. We can channel mindfulness and intention into our celebrations, offering blessings for humanity. We can pray for those whose needs far surpass our own, seeking perspective and understanding.
We can ask the light of the Hanukkah candles to grant us the strength to care for the ill and the suffering, praying for their healing. We can envision the light guiding us toward a peaceful path, advocating for safety and reconciliation. We can seek inspiration to choose righteousness, praying for integrity and moral clarity.
We can envision the light shining upon tables filled with food for the many, praying for an end to hunger and poverty. We can reflect on the light in our children’s eyes, nurturing their promise and potential. We can ask that the light illuminate those who have lost hope, helping them rediscover their faith. We can pray for the courage to use our voices, standing up for those who cannot speak for themselves.
Last year, I woke up feeling as stiff as the wax remnants on my kitchen counters. Yet, I realize that each night offers a fresh start; each tomorrow brings new opportunities. There are gifts to give, stories to share, and choices to make that extend beyond the culinary—like choosing compassion over indifference, engagement over disconnection, and light over darkness. With eight nights ahead of me and a plethora of candles to use, I’m determined to let my light shine. I believe we all can do the same.
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Summary:
As Hanukkah approaches, the author reflects on the challenges of balancing festive traditions with the deeper meanings of the holiday. Emphasizing the importance of kindness, compassion, and mindfulness, she resolves to embrace the light of the season, seeking to uplift others and find purpose beyond materialism.
Keyphrase: Hanukkah light and kindness
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