It’s the Festival of Lights Time
Read more articles on Let Me Share With You and Holidays.December 4, 2007
Posted by Karen Amato Schwartz
December 4, 2007
Posted by Karen Amato Schwartz
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Last December, I wrote a piece here, “Is Hanukkah becoming a Jewish Christmas?” and this year, I must say that it doesn’t seem as it is, after all. Then again, this year I’m not working at a temple school. But even while browsing through the stores, I have not noticed as much commercialism-although it could be simply I’m not in the right place. I think that’s a good thing.
My daughter is fortunate that she has both Judeo/Christian influences in her life, but as can be imagined, she lives in a predominantly Christian world. In fact, there are only a small handful of Jewish kids in her entire school. Consequently, Christmas is given all of the attention. I’m glad that she can be exposed to a quieter-though just as festive-holiday, in order to appreciate its qualities as well.
Every year, as I see more and more hype and stuff in the stores, I find the simple nature of Hanukkah much more appealing. (Plus, giving gifts over a week instead of all at one time is just a lot more do-able!) Someone gave me husband a card once that listed the differences in celebrating the two holidays; after checking off both categories in spiritual significance, lights, cards, and foods, it came down to the difference of getting gifts once and getting gifts 8 times-guess which one got the higher marks?!
As usual, I will make potato pancakes, but I draw the line at making doughnuts…that’s just too much work for me. But there will be chocolate, along with lots of blue, white and silver wrapping paper, and two lovely menorahs in my house for awhile.
To my Jewish family and friends, I wish you all a very Happy Hanukkah!
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