The day is finally here!  Today, December 1st, begins the Lauren Michele Poetry/Photography holiday favorites mania.  My December 1st favorite is as follows:

What is my favorite part of Chanukah?  Reconnecting with my Jewish heritage.  I am very proud of who I am, and the holidays are a reminder of how special my heritage is.  My traditions include putting my little blue menorah on display, saying the Chanukah prayers at night with the help of Youtube, reading “Alexandra’s Scrolls”, a book about the first Hanukkah as told by a young Jewish girl named Alexandra, and watching Maccabees, a DVD by NEST.  Also, when I was little, I had a teddy bear named Judah Maccabees.  :)

If you do not know the story of Hanukkah, allow me to enlighten you: The Jews were, at one time, oppressed by a Greek king; he killed Jews, outlawed their religion, and defiled the temple, their place of worship.  Despite their small number and “underdog” status, Judah Maccabees and his army were successful in their rebellion.  The temple was restored, and a celebration took place.  There was only enough oil to light the temple menorah for one night, but the lamp miraculously burned for eight straight nights.  That, ladies and gentlemen, is why we celebrate Hanukkah.  Tonight is the 4th night of Hanukkah; please take the time to celebrate the Light: Jesus.  Chanukah sameach!

– Lauren Michele  :)

Barukh ata Adonai Eloheinu, melekh ha’olam, asher kid’shanu b’mitzvotav v’tzivanu l’hadlik ner shel Hanukkah

Barukh ata Adonai Eloheinu, melekh ha’olam, she’asa nisim la’avoteinu ba’yamim ha’heim ba’z’man ha’ze