The Lights of Hanukkah 2024

by Rabbi Deb Smith

Hanukkah is one of my favorite times of the year because we bring light into a time of shorter days and longer nights. In many parts of the country it is also cold and snowy.

Lighting then Hanukkah candles with friends and family, whether on Zoom or in the same room, brings warmth and light to my heart.

I have been reflecting on the lights I will kindle each night
and what I will be grateful for when I light that candle.

I have been reflecting on the lights I will kindle each night and what I will be grateful for when I light that candle.

The first candle: I acknowledge and am grateful  for the gift of my life. I am grateful for my parents who, together with God, created me.

The second candle: I acknowledge and give gratitude for my husband of 50 years, Neil, and all the good times we have enjoyed together.

The third candle: I acknowledge and am  grateful for my two beautiful daughters, Elana and Dana. I am proud that they are my daughters and I am proud of the choices they have made in their lives.

The fourth candle: I acknowledge and I’m grateful for our dog Sammi. We got our mini golden doodle, Sammi, during Covid and she has brought unending joy into each day of our lives

The fifth candle: I acknowledge and I’m grateful for my homes in Florida and in New Jersey and for the friends we have in both places and the things we enjoy doing in both of our home locations during the year.

The sixth candle: I acknowledge and I’m grateful for all my friends and extended family.  Each friend and family member is dear to me in a unique way, and I feel blessed to have such a wonderful friendship circle.

The seventh candle: I acknowledge and I’m grateful for the choice I made years back to become a rabbi. My life and my heart are so fulfilled because of this decision.

The eight candle: I acknowledge and I’m grateful for God’s everpresence in my life. Without the gift of life that God has given me, and that God breathes into me every day, I would not be able to enjoy the world around me.  Thank you, God, for the miracle that is my life.

Happy Hanukkah! May the flame in your heart and in your home burn bright this year!