Shine Your Light
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Shine Your Light
Even a single flame pushed back the darkness for the Maccabees, and the holy spark within each of us — that piece of Divinity from above — waits for the same invitation to shine.
The Sara Litton z"l Monthly Emunah Essay for Kislev:
During the darkest times of year and in challenging periods of Jewish history, finding light becomes difficult. Often, we can only manage small steps—מעט (a little). The Chanukah story exemplifies this: the Maccabees were few fighting against massive Seleucid forces, and only a small cruse of oil with an intact seal remained.
A Little Bit of Good
Likutei Moharan teaches a powerful lesson about discovering מעט טוב (a little bit of good) within oneself. When individuals feel weighed down by darkness and heaviness, locating even one small positive point—a kind act, positive attribute, or tiny mitzvah—can shift perspective toward restoration.
The lighting of Chanukah candles follows this principle: beginning with one flame on the first day, then gradually adding more each night. Similarly, spiritual progress starts with one small step upward. As the teaching states: "a small amount of light pushes away tremendous darkness."
The True Miracle
The true Chanukah miracle lies not merely in finding oil or defeating a powerful enemy, but in the Jewish people's "determination to not despair, the indomitable spirit" that continues inspiring generations.
Your Holy Spark
Within each person exists a holy spark—חלק אלוקה ממעל (a piece of Divinity from above). The soul resembles a flame perpetually turning toward the Creator. Each person's candle is unique, pure, and untainted—waiting to be discovered.
Find your מעט טוב. Let your flame burn brighter until it shines brilliantly, and your light gives others permission to do likewise.
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