As the days grow colder and the nights stretch longer, it’s hard to ignore the darkness outside. But with the holidays comes something we all need: a chance to celebrate light. The Jewish holiday of Hanukkah teaches us that we all have the power to bring light into the world, and even the smallest flame can illuminate vast darkness. The glow of the menorah represents not just a miracle but a call to action: to spread light where it’s needed most. Combating darkness, whether personal challenges or global struggles, can feel overwhelming but Hanukkah reminds us of resilience.
Even a small jug of oil can last longer than anyone thought possible.
This past Sunday, a few of our teen programs focused on the value of social action and brought joy, art, and meaning to our community through chesed (acts of kindness). Their commitment to using time and resources to spread light within our community reminds us that everyone can be a shamash (helper) and make a difference in someone’s life. The Iris Teen Tzedakah group spent a meaningful day with the residents at Lester Senior Housing, sharing stories, laughter, and companionship as they created projects for the upcoming holiday of Hanukkah. At the same time, the Diller Teen Fellows visited the clients at JESPY House, uplifting spirits through genuine connection and joy as they painted menoraot (candelabras) to use for the holiday of Hanukkah. Together these teens and adults lit up the season showing that acts of kindness can transform lives.
Each moment we bring light, we have the power to inspire, comfort, and connect. A kind word, a small gesture, a shared moment are the sparks that ripple outward, illuminating lives we may not even see. Just as one candle doesn’t diminish when it lights another, our light multiplies as we share it. Rabbi Jonathan Sacks z”l taught, “There always were two ways to live in a world that is often dark and full of tears. We can curse the darkness, or we can light a light, and as the Chassidim say, a little light drives out much darkness. May we all help light up the world.”
Let us take this lesson forward, not just during Hanukkah, but as a mindset for the coming year. Where there is darkness, let us bring light. Where there is despair, let us bring hope.