A Chanukah Message from Rabbi Max Miller

Even amidst a global pandemic, there are still countless things for which I am grateful.

First and foremost, I am grateful for the health of my family and friends, and I say a Shehechiyanu to God for bringing me to this day in good health.

I am grateful for the gift of Torah study that, as in every generation, has been the glue to bind the Jewish people, in times of peace as much as in times of strife.

I am grateful to live in the United States of America. A 245-year work in progress, I still believe in the ability of our country to live by the words inscribed upon the Statue of Liberty, a safe haven for the weak, the poor, the stranger and the outcast of every nation.

I am grateful for the State of Israel. Imperfect as any nation, but always reaching to make real the words of the Prophet Micah: “Do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with God.”

This might be a strange one, but I am thankful for Broadway. In a time of so much unpredictability, few things are as comforting as the familiarity, beauty and creativity of musical theater.

I am grateful for my faithful cup of strong coffee to jumpstart my mornings and for the good glass of wine to softly close each evening.

I am grateful for bones days and no-bones days. Either way, I am grateful for the fine, furry friends who bring a smile to my face.

Finally, I am grateful for the scientists and medical and public health professionals who have created vaccines, advised us on safe practices, and made it possible to fight this virus.

Rabbi Max Miller is an associate rabbi at Temple Emanu-El and the leader of TE’s 20s & 30s community.