Tuesday, November 17. Winter arrived suddenly this morning. We stood in the cold sleet, in the dimness, talking of darkness and light, as snow settled on the marsh. The darkness descends on us as we approach the winter solstice, and we could sink into sadness and anxiety. But with hope, we light the candles of Hanukah, ever brighter as the week goes on, in faith that the light will return.
Kislev is the “month of dreams and stars”, a month of optimism actually, of expansiveness, confidence, faith in miracles, and hope for redemption. The origins of this optimism are the miracle of Hanukah, where a faithful band of Jews defeated Greek oppression, and re-sanctified and rekindled the Temple lights with the tiniest amount of oil, which lasted for eight full days. It is also found in the stories we read in the Torah this month, of our ancestors’ dreams and hopes. Jacob saw angels climbing up and down the ladder to the stars, and wrestled with an angel under the stars. Joseph dreamed of stars and sheaves of wheat, and interpreted Egyptians’ dreams while in Pharaoh’s court. In both narratives, we learn of the optimism of the dreamers, and also the complexity of their dreams, and the families and society relationships of which they were a part. Similarly, in our own time, this Kislev, we have reason for optimism, yet are also aware of the complexity and difficulty of going forward in a nation so divided.
In reflection, we talked of darkness and light. The return of the days of darkness and light as the seasons move around the year; the arrival of dark November with its rain and bare branches; the inevitable light that will come with winter’s snow. Our source Mindy Ribner advises us to kindle our faith and trust in the G-d this month, to give ourselves time to sleep and dream, and to celebrate our victories. May we all settle into our homes, and kindle our fires and the Hanukah lights with joy, and optimism for the seasons to come. —Kirby
We will honor the Full Moon of Kislev on Monday, November 30. Please check e-mails, or be in touch with us, as inclement weather may cancel our meetup. The next Rosh Chodesh will be Wednesday, December 16, rain or snow or shine. Both walking meditations will be at 7:30 am. Contact us for location. Social distancing will be observed; please wear a mask.
Rosh Chodesh Cleveland 