Sunday, December 21, 2008

Happy Holidays

Today Hanukkah begins at sundown. It is celebrated with excellent food, an exchange of gifts, and the lighting of beautiful menorahs (special Hanukkah candelabras)
filled with brightly colored candles.

According to the Jewish Outreach Institute, "Many Jewish holidays commemorate events invested with historical and religious meaning, and Hanukkah is no exception. Hanukkah means "rededication," and it commemorates the rededication of the Temple in Jerusalem after its desecration by foreign forces. The celebration also reaffirms the continuing struggle to live by God's commandments and to lead Jewish lives. In a period of eight days, Hanukkah offers us a glimpse of the Divine, an opportunity to dedicate ourselves to all that is holy in the world, in our family, and in ourselves. We hope that the lights of Hanukkah illumine your path in the world, and through your life's journey."

Unlike some of the other Jewish holidays, which require intense spiritual reflection or elaborate preparation, Hanukkah is easy to celebrate. Spinning the dreidel is part of the fun. Take a minute, learn something fun, and join in part of the Jewish celebration. Click here to play. Then click on Spin the Dreidel on the sidebar.

To everyone who celebrates this holiday, many blessings to you in the coming year and a wish that we can all deal peacefully with each other.

Until next time....
Happy Quilting,
Sharon

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