Dec. 2025
Natalie Sobel

The last two years have been profoundly painful for the Jewish people. Our collective grief, fear, anger, and sense of betrayal have been immense; at times it can feel difficult to function. The emotional weight of ongoing uncertainty, combined with a renewed sense of vulnerability in the face of rising antisemitism, has left many of us feeling unmoored. The question becomes: how can we ground ourselves and move forward as Jews living in the Canadian diaspora?

One answer lies in Chanukah itself. The story of the Maccabees reminds us of resilience and renewal through the rededication of the Second Temple after its desecration. Chanukah invites us to rededicate ourselves as well  —  to our values, our goals, and our sense of purpose. It’s a perfect moment to revisit those Rosh Hashanah resolutions that may have drifted aside and to remind ourselves that light and hope are always within reach.

Of course, Chanukah also falls during the darkest days of the year, when sunlight is scarce and motivation can wane. Yet each night, as we add one more candle to the chanukiah, we see that change begins modestly, even amidst fear or uncertainty. By the eighth night, those small flames become a brilliant blaze. It’s a reminder for us to be fearless in pursuing what sets our soul on fire. The hostages who have returned home embody that same courage and rededication to hope and life itself  —  a true Chanukah moment that inspires us all.

To live with purpose and strength, we need both light and courage  —  light to see ourselves clearly, and courage to face what we find. When we name our difficult emotions, we illuminate them. When we recognize that others share our pain, we embrace our common humanity. And when we ask what we need in this moment, we practice self-kindness.

These are the foundations of Mindful Self-Compassion, and they are among the many tools available through the Hamilton Jewish Family Services mental health and well-being program. If you are seeking support, or simply a hand to help your own light shine, please reach out. Together, we can nurture resilience, purpose, and hope.

To learn more about what HJFS has to offer, visit www.hamiltonjfs.ca 

Natalie Sobel is HJFS’s new director of clinical services mental health and well-being,