Susan Minsk's Chanukah Message for 2024

After Thanksgiving every year, the holiday season begins with shows, commercials, advertisements and music celebrating Christmas. Being one who does not celebrate, I often find myself in a bit of a quagmire: I love the warmth of the season, but don’t feel the same affinity for the holiday. But not to be outdone, Hanukkah offers me and my family those same feelings and allows us to once again, celebrate our rich history.

Whether it is decorating the house with Hanukkah fixtures, creating Hanukkah treats, making latkes, being with family or simply lighting the menorah during the 8 days, Hanukkah is a time we celebrate family and Jewish traditions.

It is also a time to reflect on the past year and to have hope for the coming year.

Since October 7th, I think it is fair to say that nobody in the Jewish community has been the same. The spurge of antisemitism raised its ugly head as it has so many times in the past but this time, the strength of the Jewish people and especially the state of Israel has been a great source of pride and protection for Jewish communities all over the world. Hanukkah affords us the opportunity to remember the strength of the Maccabees and G-d’s promise to protect the Jewish people.

As we enter a new secular year, may we be blessed with peace and find joy in our families and the traditions that are unique to us.

From my family to yours – Haag Samech!

Susan Minsk is an Account Manager with Atlanta Jewish Times.