Hanukkah is a lighthearted time of joyous celebration. And yet, even the uplift of this season cannot interfere with, or stop, the tide of life carrying on...
Today, I had the honor to officiate at the funeral of a dear long-time member of our congregational family. This was a difficult occasion for many, of course - but not because it was unexpected. Quite the opposite. This person had been such a remarkable long-term survivor of a variety of serious medical conditions, that her closest family and friends had simply come to understand that she would never die. Even when faced, as she was a host of times, with the most severe diagnoses, she always made it through. Of course, ultimately, everyone's time is limited...
So for this woman who was a loving and loved mother and grandmother, lifelong teacher and student, friend and companion - this afternoon's gathering was a beautiful tribute with reflections and anecdotes, highlighted by sweet, witty and carefully crafted offerings from her children - which I believe she would have greatly enjoyed.
We are reminded of yet another vital lesson from our tradition, even when experiencing the intermingled highs and lows of life, its simchas and sadnesses inseparable: to embrace the moment, every moment - as there's a big difference between *dying* and dead.
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