The Last Lights - December 26, 2022

THE LAST LIGHTS 

December 26, 2022

The last lights lingered

On our Chanukiot

As I extended the usual time of “beholding” them 

Until they concluded their central role 

In yet another celebration 

Of miracles ancient and modern. 

What did I hope to see reflected in 

the final flickering of our candles? 

I thought about the blessing of community 

That can bring such warmth. 

It can be elusive, at times, 

but if we persist in reaching out to others, 

Connections and caring will grow. 

I saw the promise of righteousness 

In the form of giving to people in need, 

Opening hearts and hands to the stranger, to the hungry, 

To the refugee and immigrant who see our land of freedom 

as a place that encourages aspiration, 

When it is all too often a society marked with division 

That prevents extending a deserving welcome 

To those who would honor us with their presence, their energy, 

And their willing participation. 

I discerned the potential for love 

that could overcome hatreds and prejudices

That are often exacerbated and spread by rumor and innuendo 

Focusing on the ways in which people are different 

in appearance, belief or identity, 

Establishing limited and narrow standards 

for the few, the “elect,” who can share in their vision of salvation, 

Rather than imagining a pliable, flexible circle of acceptance of many

Based on the recognition of the common essence of humanity 

That each of us carries within our souls.   

I discovered a glimmer of a possibility for peace and cooperation 

Even in places where an unbridled desire for control and power 

Undermines a refined sense of reason and reality 

Leading to a denial that the tragic losses and collateral damage of war and conflict 

Are the consequence of a loss of compassion 

And a refusal to admit

that the position of the perceived adversary 

Might have some validity and value 

And could contain seeds for resolution. 

The lights extinguished themselves 

Once again 

But Chanukah demands of us

To rededicate ourselves to 

Community 

Righteousness

Giving

Love

Acceptance

Equality 

Unity. 

And peace.

This is what I will carry with me 

Into the days to come.