With latkes sizzing in the pan, our family gathered to light the menorah for the first time this year. Levi and Shalom began by singing the first bracha, blessing, for the menorah. The first blessing thanks Hashem for giving us this special Mitzvah of lighting the Chanukah candles. They then continued on to recite the blessing which thanks Hashem for the miracles He performed for our people so many years ago - as well as for the miracles we see around us on a daily basis! The third blessing, "shehecheyanu", is the blessing said when we do a Mitzvah for the first time during the year, hence it is said on the first night of Chanukah, or on whichever night one lights candles for the first time on Chanukah.
We say, "blessed are You, Hashem, King of the Universe, who has granted us life, sustained us and enabled us to reach this occasion."
What a beautiful blessing this is! Amidst the fun of Chanukah, the pretty lights, the chocolate coins, the yummy latkes, the fluffy doughnuts, the dreidel games and of course the Chanukah gelt we give to our children, we take a moment and thank G-d for bringing us to this moment. Recently whenever I say this bracha it is a reminder to me of how truly blessed I really am. It reminds me of how lucky we really are that here we are once again, being afforded the opportunity to light the menorah and remember the miracles of long ago - and for this I am truly grateful.
We must recognize the importance of each moment that Hashem grants us, and follow the example of the flames on the menorah, and use these moments to light up the world. If G-d has chosen for me to be here today, then I must do my best to do good things and make this world a better place! Take each day and celebrate the beautiful miracle it is!
Happy Chanukah!
Last night we enjoyed our first latkes for Chanukah with strawberry applesauce. When I lived in my aunt's house in Brooklyn, she would make delicious strawberry applesauce, and this year I decided to do the same! This one is super easy!
Wash fresh strawberries and place in a food processor fitted with the chopping blade. Pulse a few times until the strawberries are processed and smooth. Add a jar of plain applesauce to the bowl and pulse a few more times until well blended. Chill in the fridge and enjoy!