Mr. Rogers and Sharing Chanukah with the Neighbors

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!