The story of Chanukah teaches us that light can overcome the darkness. As the Festival of Lights approaches, we asked Jewish Chicagoans what brings them light in dark times--both figuratively and literally. Here's what they told us…
I started lighting Shabbat candles for the first time in my adult life after October 7, 2023. No matter what else happened during the week, no matter the news out of Israel, or anywhere in the West for that matter, I found myself counting down the minutes every Friday until I could light my candles. Each week, this ritual has brought me such a sense of peace.
~Natalia Derevyanny
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At times I find light in others-in the faces of eager children or students. Sometimes I find light in a song shared with friends and strangers or in a Torah text from generations ago. Most times I find the greatest light within-in the quiet of my inner self.
~Rabbi Reuven Brand
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Getting together with the fellow moms I met at my son's JCC preschool. Having moved to the North Shore without knowing a single person here eight years ago, and with no family nearby, this incredible group of moms has become family, a support system, shoulders to cry on, laughter to join in chorus together, and everything in between. I feel so lucky to have met these ladies and whether we're sipping on coffee waiting for our kids to finish a theater class, or sipping wine on a moms' night out, they always bring light into my day and life.
~Dina Bauwens
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In times of darkness, my one-year-old son, Harrison, brings me light. There's just something about the way a baby pulls you into their world of newness that reminds you hope is always within reach.
~Doug Winkelstein
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Music brings me light in times of darkness, especially music sung or played in community. It is a powerful form of communication and can reach deep into the heart.
~Rebecca Zakem
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For me, light emanates from this realization and its resulting commitments: Although I must endure the unchangeable, I also am obliged to work to change the unendurable. Finding partners in this endeavor illuminates hope.
~Aaron B. Cohen
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In times of darkness, what brings me light is being with women at their most vulnerable time, during their journey into motherhood, physically and emotionally, while birthing their babies. That moment makes my heart sing--every single time. I had no idea when I became a nurse-midwife that this would light my life over and over and over again. I have so much gratitude.
~Ariel Derringer
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Knowing I'm part of repairing our broken world--both as a nonprofit consultant, and as a mom doing my best to raise a good human--keeps me motivated.
~Jessica Leving Siegel
