Re-Dedication and Resilience

The celebration of Hanukkah began yesterday.

Hanukkah commemorates the miracle of how the Second Temple of Jerusalem was purified and the wicks of the menorah miraculously burned for eight days, even though there was only enough sacred oil for one day’s lighting. As a result, Hanukkah lasts for 8 days and is also known as the festival of lights.

The celebration of Hanukkah involves the lighting of the menorah each night, the eating of oil-based (baked or fried) foods (often Latkes), prayers, and sometimes the exchanging of gifts, playing games, and dancing.

The celebration represents a re-dedication of faith and resilience; the resilience of the human spirit and the triumph of hope over adversity,

Given the increase in anti-semitism all over the globe I hope that you will join me and re-dedicate yourself to confront and rise up against anti-semitism. Set this intention.

Acknowledge the resilience and faith of the Jewish people, and educate yourselves, to stop hatred and division. Please respect all people of all faiths.

Affirm your own resilience against adversity. 

Christine Matteson BC-DMT, LCAT, LMHC