A Chanukah Message from Amy Seidner

The story of 2020 will be told in a way future generations may dismiss as frighteningly bad fiction. But, having experienced this novel year in-real-life, as the days crawled into weeks and months, upon review, it was difficult to find warmth within ourselves and the community this year.

Undisputedly, it has been a difficult, divisive and angry year. Many of us have lost lifelong friends due to differences in ideology or politics. But, as we approach the end of the year, I hope the acrimony of the past will be tempered with the anticipation of unity, the anticipation of hope and healing. Throughout the year, unity has been top-of-mind. Coming together became the focus of community groups as we assembled online. Individuals and organizations became remarkably creative in finding ways to stay connected, together, but apart.

Despite the challenges this year, we were consistently reminded to put our family and friends first, to think of others as we made our choices. We thought of our loved ones and stayed home to protect our families and others in our community. It certainly hasn’t been easy, but we did this for the health and unity of the community.

Throughout 2020, we have seen what we are capable of, and how resilient we are.

I know because of the selflessness and the sacrifices each of us has made, that tiny spec of flame we saw this year will burn brighter and brighter. When the community unties in-person once again, the lights of the flame will shine stronger and brighter.

Amy Seidner is community events and public relations manager for the Atlanta Jewish Times.