Growing up in a Hanukkah household, I remember a childhood excited at the prospect of donuts, latkes (fried potato pancakes like a hash brown) and presents to celebrate the Jewish Festival of Lights. As a more secular Jew, this was experienced as more of a cultural holiday than that of a deep religious or spiritual experience.
I learned and have since taught my children about the story of a small army who defended their people against a much more overcoming force — of oil that should only have lasted one day but instead lasted eight. And as Adam Sandler has made most famous, we call this holiday the Festival of Lights (that lasts for eight crazy nights!).
Never before have I felt more deeply connected to the story of this holiday and I don’t think I’ll ever again connect in a similar way. Today though, as I prepare to light the last night’s candles with my family, I can come home and say that I received this year’s most precious gift. As I received my first vaccine shot this morning, I couldn’t help but feel moved by the group I saw: nurses, RTs, pharmacists, technicians, lab techs and janitorial staff. One next to the other with smiles under their masks knowing today is the day we begin to take back control.
We have battles still ahead, but I see the LIGHT that this holiday is named after. I feel connected with that little jar of oil that was left; i.e., our strength, energy, resolve and resources and know just like in historic times we will be a miracle and we will last as long as required. Our small army remains, emblazoned by vaccination and I know that we will defend you and defeat this viral enemy for good.
Whatever your holiday is this season, best wishes and happy holidays to all. Give your friend, neighbor, family and stranger the best gift of all and keep fighting with us. Wear your mask. Get your flu shot. Get vaccinated when you can. Wash your hands and stick with the plan. We are getting close but still have much work to do.
Dr. Andrew Schlachter is a critical care medicine specialist. He currently practices at Saint Luke’s South Pulmonary. He posted this on Facebook on Dec. 17.
