This was originally published by the Atlanta Jewish Times
Hanukkah is, in many ways, my favorite Zionist holiday. Hanukkah itself is the story of Jewish resilience, sovereignty, true beautiful light and miracles.
We are all indigenous to the Land of Israel. Though we’ve been scattered across the world, the Festival of Lights continues to unite us … bringing warmth, hope, and connection into our homes generation after generation. It reminds us that our ancestors fought not only for survival but to remain Jewish, to preserve their faith, their culture, and their identity.
Here in the United States, many of us have grown comfortable and that’s not a criticism, it’s simply reality. But Hanukkah calls us to remember that comfort was never our defining story…courage was. The light of the menorah reminds us that our Judaism burns bright no matter where we live, no matter how far we may seem from Jerusalem.
That light is our link to our past, to our people, and to our homeland. It’s a reminder that even in times of darkness, we carry within us the spark of continuity and hope.
So, this Hanukkah, may the light fill your home, your heart, and your life. May it reconnect you to the land and the legacy that have always been ours.
Happy Hanukkah! May your candles burn bright, and may your spirit shine even brighter.
Cheryl Dorchinsky is Executive Director of Atlanta Israel Coalition and founder of the Kosher Duck Revolution.