The Eighth Day

And just like that it is the eighth day. As I light this last set of candles I feel a combination of joy and dread all at the same time. No matter where I am in the world or what type of darkness is plaguing our world, Chanukah brings that cocoon-like space where I feel spiritual light and joy. On my social media feeds, I have loved seeing all your beautiful and diverse chanukiyot paired with blessings, or warm words, all equally spreading the light that Chanukah brings.

I guess for me the dread comes from the challenge of bringing Chanukah into the rest of the year and to not let it become just a temporary reprieve. How do I do that? How do I do that when violent acts of hatred towards us continue to violate our safe and holy places? Its hard to accept that we cannot control or change their hatred. It sometimes is hard - not to hate back - and exhausting and painful when our sisters and brothers are attacked simply for who they are. But we always have a choice - to spread light over darkness. Chanukah Sameach.