Scene 7: The Eight Nights

Karen loved the way the candles glistened and glowed. Each day, they lighted a new candle in remembrance of the eight nights the oil lamp burned, over two thousand years before. Karen had a deep conviction about her heritage. Each year, Mama told her the story of how the Jewish people had been suppressed and forbidden to believe in their own God. She also talked about how the Maccabees defeated the Syrians. Mama told Karen about the importance of their people, and of how they had gone to the Temple and made a new menorah out of a cheaper metal since the Golden Menorah had been stolen. When the people went to light it, they found only a small earthenware pot of pure olive oil, bearing the emblem of the high priest. There was only enough for one day, but by a miracle of God, the oil lasted for eight.

After Hanukkah ended, Karen rode with Mama, as she drove Aunt Eva to the airport for her trip back to New York.

©2021, Karen Lynn-Chlup. All rights reserved.