Give Yourself a Gift This Hanukah

Traditionally, for centuries Purim served as the Jewish holiday for giving gifts. Giving gifts during Hanukah is a response to our neighbors' celebration of Christmas. I think it is pleasing to appreciate others every day and at special times. We Jews have a long and rich history. We have lived around the world and we have influenced and been influenced by other cultures. Giving gifts is lovely thing to do for both holidays..

So this year I have a suggestion. Give gifts to friends and family. Give gifts of charitable donations to people in need. Also, give yourself a gift. The word Hanukah means rededication. At this season of freedom, during this Festival of Lights, add some brightness to your life in an enduring way. Our candle lighting brightens our homes during the darkest season of the year, even as rekindling the lamp in the ancient Temple brought the bright glow of hope to our people during times of oppression. We human beings fill our lives with meaning, beauty, and value. As Jews we have the wisdom of our people and traditions of the ages to guide us. Rededicate yourself to learning this year. Discover something new that will enhance your understanding of the world and its creatures. Do this for yourself. Give yourself the gift of growth this Hanukah, or Christmas or Kwanzaa. It is a gift that only you can give yourself.

This year and every year let us give the gift of knowledge. Let us fill our homes with books and the sharing of ideas in active, informed discussion and debate. The gift of knowledge is one that we give now for ourselves and for our children; it is a lifelong gift.