No grandmother should ever spend her Hanukkah on cold pavements, but compassion doesn't always adhere to the calendar's dates nor the traditions' warmth. One grandmother, in her twilight years, parked herself stubbornly outside the grand homes of Israel's decision-makers. This was not a celebration of light, like the Hanukkah she had known in past years. No, this was an ember's glow of desperation for her grandson, held captive in the teetering chaos that is Gaza.
Her resolve was as undeniable as the weathered lines on her face, etched from decades of joy, sorrow, and now, relentless worry. A symbol of wilderness wandering, an invisible menoah in her heart, illuminating her determination as she navigated this daunting political gauntlet.
Halfway around the world, through the impenetrable walls and treacherous roadblocks, her grandson wrestles with desolation inside Gaza's labyrinth. The warren of tightly constricted hopes, where every sunset is a curse, not a glimpse of divine beauty as it should be. His only Hanukkah gift, a single, enduring thought - My grandmother is fighting for me.
Underneath the twinkling fairy lights and adorned menorahs of the leaders' homes, her presence ignited a contrasting flame. Her grim perseverance clashed against the festive spirits-- an unexpected paradox. An Israeli grandmother's plea warping into an unforgiving testament of love and desperation amidst the festivities of Hanukkah.
Somewhere amidst the warmth of families huddled together around flickering menorahs and the bright sparks of spinning dreidels, her voice echoed. Etched into the cold air, her Hanukkah prayer hangs unanswered. It was a story of hope, a grandmother's love, and a cause that made her the reluctant heroine of a season that celebrates miracles.
Who knows? Perhaps her tale might inspire those in power to strike their own dreidels of decision. To aim for the 'Gimel' - the case where everyone wins. After all, Hanukkah is the time for miracles. In this time of festivity, there's an Israel grandmother waiting, hoping, and believing in one.
