The lights of Chanukah are a good time to reflect on challenges that need illumination. Therefore, I would like to share with you eight candles. While I will list them from one to eight, each candle is important in its own way and you may choose your own order.

The first candle is for the person who feels invisible. This person may not have the money to participate in all the activities of the Jewish community even though the community does see itself as a welcoming place.

The second candle is for those who are hungry and who appreciate the opportunity to go to a food pantry.
The third candle is for the innocent child who cannot speak of the abuse he/she is experiencing.

The fourth candle is for all the individuals who have lost someone they love this year.

The fifth candle is for all the individuals who are being treated for a life threatening condition.

The sixth candle is for the person who needs assistance in order to navigate the world around them.

The seventh candle is for those who are homeless or living in substandard conditions.

The eighth candle is for all of us who can make a difference in the lives of those who suffer

Thank you for lighting my JFS menorah.