#SeasonalSonnets: 24th Dec.

Hello my lovely readers!

This evening's #SeasonalSonnets entry is in celebration of the first night of Chanukah. As I said in the post that began this poetic venture, our household is very much an interfaith one, since between us we have backgrounds in both Christianity and Judaism (as well as a profound interest in other faiths). Consequently, around this time of year, we always mark a combination of the points of importance in the Judeo-Christian tradition.

However, we have not previously gone through the ceremony of lighting the Chanukiah each night, although we have always wanted to do so. This year, we decided to change that, because we all feel that 2016 could do with as much light as possible to fend off the swathes of darkness that have pervaded it so far. Moreover, in the face of increased intolerance, it seems more important than ever to assert pride in our heritages and to encourage others to do the same - and the fact that Christmas and Chanukah cross over this year seemed too much of a happy coincidence to pass up.

So, below, you may find my sonnet accompanied by a picture of our family Chanukiah - which, even more serendipitously for our particular circumstances, is a beaded hippo made in South Africa!

I hope you enjoy both the poem and the picture - and, if you are also celebrating tonight, have a happy and safe time. Let's all spread love, light, and tolerance.

Jx

24^th December

Although today for many’s Christmas Eve,

it’s also the first night of Chanukah,

which means, this year, whatever we believe,

two festivals of light are brought together.

The timing of this pairing seems quite apt –

since 2016’s been rather full of turmoil –

we need all of the reminders we can get

of the universe’s size, to keep us humble.

That’s not to say I think we’re unimportant

(no! rather just the opposite, in fact)

but that we must remember what is pertinent,

and keep our best humanity intact.

For as long as there are candles, there is light,

and we can keep compassion burning bright.

 

 

Photo Credit Bev Chambers