​​​​​​​Dear Friends,
Rosh Hodesh Kislev coincides with Thanksgiving this year. In a clear sky, the moon will be almost imperceptible, the tiniest sliver of light. Some days it may feel like the world is filled with darkness. We wonder when the light will again shine our way. Days ago, five were killed and almost four times that many wounded in a murderous rampage at an LGBTQ dance club in Colorado Springs. Families are mourning. Community is mourning. Just this morning, I awoke to news of the detonation of explosives in two attacks in Jerusalem. More killed. More wounded. We are all wounded by an overwhelming presence of hate in our world. What would it take for everyone to live a life of safety and peace?
The tiny crescent in the sky reminds us:Â Light remains. Even in the face of the unspeakable, we find potential for light;Â in the hands of a neighbor who pushes you to safety or brings you needed food supplies; in the feet of first responders who run towards trauma instead of away; in the faces of those who represent gd's humanity. We cannot take this light for granted. It is up to us to cultivate the light so that it may shine freely.Â
Our tradition teaches not to count on miracles. Instead, we must work in partnership with one another and the holiest source of all, reminding us we are one, connected throughout the generations, l'dor vador. Towards the end of this month of Kislev, we will light the Hanukkiah, adding more light each night. This Thanksgiving, commit to living your life in the manner in which Hillel called on us to illuminate the Hanukkah menorah, each day placing ourselves in proximity to more sources of light.Â
On this Thanksgiving, I pray we come together with others, whether at the table, by phone, or walking the streets where we live. Take time to look into the eyes of the other. There, may you find a spark of light to remind you of the source of what is good. As the psalmist proclaims and we sing in the Hallel, Hodu l'Adonai Ki Tov. Ki l'Olam Hasdo/Thanksgiving to the One who is good, gd's compassion remains forever. May the practice of giving thanks bring the light of wisdom, kindness and change we need.Â
l'Shalom,
rg
Enjoy this recording of HODU by the Platt brothers ​​​​​​​
