On Chanukah, the Previous Rebbe would tell his chassidim: “We must listen carefully to what the candles are saying”.
While candles can't talk, they share a message. The most basic message is that the best way to get rid of darkness is to shine light on it.
This year, as I listen to the candles, I hear a message of sharing. In order for one to share their light, one needs to make certain that their own light is strong. We need to work on building our own spiritual fortitude, to ensure that we are shining and sharing good energy and kindness. We need to make sure the light of Torah and Mitzvos is shining in our home, ie mezuzah, kosher, shabbat, charity box… and have that light shine on our daily experience.
The nature of light is that it spreads. The Chanukah lights are lit "by the door of the house, on the outside". The light that we have shines on the world around us, as long as we ensure that the flames are lit.
Get fired up and shine on the world.
This is what I heard when I listened to the flames. What did you hear?
Rabbi Kushi Schusterman
