Rabbi's Corner

Since tommorrow is Shabbat here are two thoughts.
1. In America we trationally eat latkes, in Israel they usually eat Donuts. Recently we have been eating both.  Christians light the Christmas trees and we light our Menorahs.  Similarities and differences abound in the world.  Appreciating them is what makes living in a diverse world connected by humanity is wonderful.
2. The Rabbis forbid us from using the Hanukkah candles for anything.  We should not read by them or use their flames for heat.  Rather we should just appreciate their beauty. Do we ever just stop and enjoy the present?  The present is our presnt on this holiday of gift giving.