A Chanukah Message from Rabbi Max Miller
Read community insights, advice and perspectives during Chanukah.
I don’t drive a Jeep or ride a Harley. But I undoubtedly would be a much cooler rabbi if I did. However, I do know that there is an unspoken bond between these motorists, a special head nod or wave given between members of the group.
That’s just like the bond I feel during these days of December. Now, our world is inundated virtually or physically with jingle-jangles and tinsel. But whenever I see that shopper in the store with candles or latkes in their cart, or when I drive by that home with a chanukiyah in the window, I like to give that same sort of nod of understanding and solidarity.
Every Chanukah I am reminded of just how important it is to stand proudly as a Jew, especially when there are so few of us in the greater American landscape. However, on this Chanukah, when we are most isolated, those small moments of connection can bring greater feelings of unity. The next time that you’re in the store and see a Member of the Tribe, give a nod, or better yet, say Happy Chanukah, and make our community that much closer.
Max Miller is an associate rabbi at Temple Emanu-El.
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