“May the lights of Chanukah usher in a better world for all humankind.”
~ author unknown
If it feels like life is sometimes spinning like a dreidel, Chanukah helps us to slow down – to reconnect with family and loved ones, and to celebrate with some traditional holiday foods. This year Chanukah begins on Tuesday night, December 12, and we light candles for eight nights to remember the story of the Maccabees and the miracle of the oil that burned longer and brighter in the ancient Temple, outlasting every expectation.
As winter sets in and the days grow shorter, along comes Chanukah, the Jewish Festival of Lights, to lift us out of the darkness. With some tasty latkes, sweet doughnuts and chocolate coins, Chanukah is a cause for celebration, no matter what your age. Digging out the old family recipes brings us a sense of tradition and closeness.
The Deeper Meaning of Chanukah
The Chanukah story is one of perseverance. As we say the blessings each night, we remember that the world may be dark but we can brighten it up with the radiant light of colorful candles. Even if the season conspires to bring us down with grey skies and gloomy weather, the menorah in the window lets us share the candles’ glow with family, friends and neighbors.
The message of Chanukah is that a little bit can go a long way. Good deeds and positive actions can lead to a better and more peaceful world. So at this season, try to appreciate the many miracles in your life, both large and small, and have faith in the belief that light drives out darkness. Indulge in some holiday treats, maybe even a few gifts, and find comfort and joy in the timely and reassuring message of Chanukah.
The Oscar and Ella Wilf Campus for Senior Living is comprised of Stein Assisted Living, Jaffa Gate Memory Care Neighborhood, Stein Hospice, Wilentz Senior Residence, Wilf Transport, and The Foundation at the Wilf Campus. For more information, contact us at (732) 568-1155, [email protected] or visit us at www.wilfcampus.org.