In solidarity with the Jewish people around the globe on this first night of Chanukah!

Chanukah and Antisemitism
by Michael Doyle

In what should be a quiet season filled with optimism
It is hard to feel life without a bit of pessimism
Still, menorah lights shine hope into a hopeless night
In a  #MeToo moment that is a hate-filled sight

An oppressed people's plight is twisted and manipulated
By cowards pretending bravery against those similarly fated
Two peoples need to somehow learn to coexist and survive
And a bedeviled resistance that lets neither stay alive

With all this joy and sorrow, is life lived despite grief
In a world filled with a dull coldness, survivors seek relief
It's the story of perseverance in the face of unspeakable hate
A rededication of the temple must be had before it is too late

We know that as we join hand in hand, standing as friends
That the forces of intolerance will come to their just end
Even as we see the beasts of Satan follow their baser urges
We hold this hatred back through brotherhood as it surges

The menorahs will continue their visibility in prominent places
As the first night of the Festival of Lights leaves its traces
While the rabbis know it's hard to demonstrate pride in Judaism
In this hate-filled world that is caught up in antisemitism

Here on the first night of Chanukah, the conflict will stay
The light of the shamash signifies the will forward today
And must be lit with courage and belief in the divine light
This reminder of the Jewish obligation begins this night

The miracle of oil burning must flow shining and fully visible
Knowing that the peoples of faith will stand indivisible
Side by side in this celebration of freedom and sanctuary
This symbol of light is God's presence given in His dignity 

We stand united as one guardian of the world and universe
To shield and comfort the oppressed from a hatred so perverse
Like the burning bush that speaks the truth that all must hear
We must stand firm, lighting each candle, and quench out fear

(c)December 7, 2023    Michael Doyle
All Rights Reserved