Last night marked  2 occasions in our life. The first a celebration of the miracle of Hanukkah that has lasted over 2000 years. The second a celebration of a departed friend’s birthday.

Hanukkah has many different meanings and interpretations. To some, it’s the Jewish equivalent to Christmas. To others it’s a day to celebrate the miracle of a small vial of oil that should have lasted one day, but instead lasted eight. It’s a time to bring celebration, joy and happiness at a time of where it seems like we spend more time in the dark then in the light.

Losing our friend in September felt that way too. It felt like at times we spend more time in the dark then in the light. So last night was a special start to Hanukkah as instead of spending time in the dark, we celebrated her life. A few years back, she wanted to eat a Vermonster at Ben & Jerry’s with her friends. This tradition continued the following year. If she hadn’t been sick, we would have continued it last year too. So with sadness in our hearts, we fondly sat on a cold, snowy day downing a Vermonster.

The night continued with more events in which her presence was felt, and missed, but at the same time celebrated, because I know that she would have loved the celebration in her honor. Afterwards, we went back to her husband’s house, to light candles with friends and their children around. Christmas songs were converted into Hanukkah songs, and their was much laughter around the house.

If all of that wasn’t enough, the Jewish Community had an event last night to introduce an idea for a vibrant young artist, musician, spiritual, socially just community. A couple of New York City musicians played, including an old friend, Chana Rothman. It was good to be running into old friends in the community that I haven’t seen in a while, and to meet some new people. Most important of all, it was good to have a moment of light on a cold dark winter’s night in Cleveland.

 

So I hope that all of you can bring light and happiness to friends, family, and complete strangers in a time of year that is cold and dark. In doing this not only will you be honoring a sweet caring woman, you will also be celebrating the true miracle of Hanukkah.