Our grandchildren's happiness at Hanukkah brings some peace in a world full of stress

It's a time of stress in America and throughout the world. The war between Israel and Hamas has left tens of thousands of innocents dead. The war in Ukraine has no end in sight. In the United States, anti-Semitic and Islamophobic acts have risen four hundred percent. Plus, the divide between the right and the left here is greater than ever, especially with a Presidential election in eleven months.

It’s hard to catch a breath. It's hard to find some peace.

We’re now exactly at the midway point of Hanukkah. Four days down, four to go! The holiday is more poignant this year because of the events in the Middle East.

And if there is one thing that lets you catch your breath and find a little peace, it's seeing the smiles on the faces of little ones as they open their presents. It's seeing their joy as they play with their toys. Whether strumming a ukulele, running with a football or sitting in a tent, their happiness brings us happiness. Their innocence takes us away from the realities of the world. It may be only for a few minutes, but it’s the best few minutes of our day.

Happy Hanukkah day five! Peace!