What Do You Think About When you Light The Menorah?

[The Grovers Corners Yenta2]

Posted: 12/27/05 at 8:55pm

After I light the Menorah and say the blessings, I like to sit there in silence as I watch the candles flicker. My mind starts running on many levels. I like to think about that I am doing the same ritual that generations did before me. Did my ancestors in Hungary and Russia have the freedom to light the Menorah? Next, I think about the generations to come and wonder if they will continue this practice. The miracle of the oil lasting for eight days also makes me contemplate the miracles that have gone in my lifetime. Speaking of miracles in my lifetime, I also think about those that have yet to occur. Lighting the Menorah really makes me think. What about you?

[GClef2]

Posted: 12/27/05 at 9:01pm

Im not trying to be rude, or sacreligious, but I would be singing "Would you light my candle?" Please don't be offended by this. I have actually taken part in Hannukah festivities, but i would be thinking of that song the whole time. HAPPY HANNUKAH.

[Rathnait62]

Posted: 12/27/05 at 9:05pm

I've only done it once, this past Sunday, and I was thinking about the fact that wearing the blouse with the big flowy sleeves had been an unfortunate choice.

[shameless]

Posted: 12/27/05 at 9:12pm

Since, I'm not Jewish, I would probably be thinking, "I hope nobody catches me lighting this Menorah!"

Updated On: 12/27/05 at 09:12 PM

[Dollypop]

Posted: 12/27/05 at 9:56pm

I'm usually concentrating on the wonders of Loretta Swit. You do realize that she's one of the greatest lights in the American Theater, don't you?

[The Grovers Corners Yenta2]

Posted: 12/27/05 at 10:04pm

Yes, right up there with Kaye Ballard and Pee-wee Herman.

[guitargeek0624]

Posted: 12/27/05 at 10:09pm

I think of "Light My Candle" as well. My dad, who's more religious than I am, gets angry when I start humming it, but I can't help it.

[The Grovers Corners Yenta2]

Posted: 12/27/05 at 10:11pm

I was told that when I was two years old, I sang Happy Birthday after my mother lit the Menorah on the last night.

[Link Larkin Wanabe]

Posted: 12/27/05 at 10:13pm

i was thinking "$hit...that wax dripping is hot. Maybe I shouldn't have put these candles so close to the drapes. Whats the number for 9-1-1 again?"

Akiva

[YouWantitWhen????]

Posted: 12/27/05 at 10:33pm

After the thoughtful, introspective moment I have, nowhere as deep or as thoughtful as Yenta's, I am sad to say one of the things I think about is whether or not I need to stay in the room until the candles are out because of the fire hazard and two crazy cats.

I actually had a cat that caught on fire one day when it walked too close to a lit candle.

And, I I also give thanks for no-drip candles. My mom bought me a beautiful mother of pearl Menorah for my birthday this year, and I don't want to drip wax on it!

[gumbo2]

Posted: 12/27/05 at 10:35pm

When we first light the candles I think about when I have my own kids and teach them the prayers and light the candles as a family. That, and how it's amazing how everyone in my house just drops what they're doing and gathers around the menorah. It's nice, even if just for a couple minutes.

[Plum]

Posted: 12/27/05 at 10:59pm

I get scared of the wax dripping on me. Also, since I tend to be the oldest child at family gatherings, I'm watching everyone's shamashes to make sure they stay lit. Oh, and trying to remember all the words to the blessing.

[peach]

Posted: 12/28/05 at 12:19pm

Yenta - that was very nice. I don't tend to think too much when lighting the menorah - I just kind of get in the moment and enjoy taking part in the tradition.

Although, last night, I admit, I was thinking about potato latkes. Yummy.
Updated On: 12/28/05 at 12:19 PM

[cheezedoodle]

Posted: 12/28/05 at 12:22pm

I think - "What in the world are you doing lighting a Menorah?! You are Catholic!".

[touchmeinthemorning]

Posted: 12/28/05 at 12:24pm

I think, "Mom, I liked Christmas better before you decided to be a Jew for Jesus."

[Chenofan #1]

Posted: 12/28/05 at 12:29pm

I think of "Light My Candle" like many people (okay, 2 or 3) on this thread. I also think of: "Okay, only x more nights to go and I'm free!! Ha Ha Ha... I mean... what?"

[jimmirae]

Posted: 12/29/05 at 6:14am

Usually Adam Sandler.

[LizzieCurry]

Posted: 12/29/05 at 6:25am

"I hope my Jehovah's Witness sister doesn't catch me. Actually...I hope she does!"

[Jon]

Posted: 12/29/05 at 9:20am

I'm thinking "Labia Menorah".