Advent In An Hour: Dec 20

Some things this son (and grandson) of a Baptist preacher man has learned about Hanukkah over the years:

1. How to spell it. Hanukkah or Chanukah.
2. The proper greeting is simply “Happy Hanukkah.” “Chappy Chanukah” is not an acceptable alternative.
3. It’s not Jewish Christmas. There’s no such thing as a Hanukkah bush to decorate or a Hanukkah Harry delivering gifts for eight nights.
4. Yom Kippur is the fasting holiday; Hanukkah (like all other holidays) you get to eat! But not matzo.
5. As far as Jewish holidays goes, it’s not that big of a deal. Certainly not one of the top three. Or even the top six.

But while it may not hold the same level of importance that Christmas does to Christians, I’m glad Hanukkah’s around, reminding us Gentiles that we’re not the only religion on the block. So I’m spending Hanukkah being thankful for all my friends who happen to be Jewish. Like with any other community, there are plenty of differences among them. But the one thing they have in common is they’ve brought joy, warmth and friendship to my life, and made me richer for it.

So HAPPY HANUKKAH to Ira, Polina & Gary, Gabby, Craig, Steve, Andrew, Victor, Bob, Dallas, Devra, Gregg, Julie, Ian & Pauline, Justin, Larry, Billy, Jon & Jessica, Sharyn, Mike & Hannah, Harrison, Jeff, Wynn and anyone I might have missed!