I
admit it. I am a Mr. Rogers fan. I watched as a kid and even had my very own
Mr. Rogers sweater.
While
recently watching A
Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood, my thoughts wandered to whether
there was a Chanukah lesson from Mr. Rogers. A quick Google search, and it
seems like Mr. Rogers filmed one Christmas special in 1977 in which he also
addressed Chanukah. He sang "I Have
a Little Dreidel," and the trolley to the Neighborhood of Make Believe was decorated
with a sign reading "Happy Chanukah" on one side. (I like how he spelled it!)
Upon
further reflection, I think Mr. Roger’s neighborliness fits with
Chanukah being the perfect holiday to get to know one’s neighbors and share the
beauty of the holiday. Particularly in
New York and other large cities – but it could be anywhere, people are less
connected even with those who live nearby.
Chanukah is all about reaching others as the mitzvah is to publicize the
miracle by placing the lights where all can see them.
“So…please
won’t you be my neighbor?”
For
years, I have promoted the idea of 100 Homes
of Light. All it takes is a
menorah and a few refreshments, and you can create a “Home of Light.”
Each year, my family invites neighbors from our building to join us for one
night of Chanukah. We light the menorah, sing a little, and, of course,
serve Chanukah treats. (Here are some past pictures.)
It
is just too easy to share Chanukah. Everyone needs to try it.
I
know some of you will agree wholeheartedly but say, “This year, we’ll be away
on vacation.” My response is to try it
wherever you are!
In
speaking with someone going on vacation to a warmer climate over Chanukah, they
mentioned reaching out to Chabad for kosher food. The discussion then turned to which hotel
they were at and whether Chabad could come over and have a Chanukah party with
them as hosts. And…voila: A Hotel of
Light! It’s a Chanukah miracle! J
It’s
not too late to make it happen! This
Chanukah, get to know your neighbors – or your fellow travelers. Get to work – and put your children and
family members to work – in sharing Chanukah with that next door neighbor, your
floor, or your building. It will be fun
and create a memorable, positive Jewish experience for all involved.
May
the light shine brightly for all of us as we celebrate Chanukah beyond the
walls of the home in ways both big and small.
Chag urim sameach!
