Stories....

We used to be awed and amazed by its 110 stories

Now we are overwhelmed by 5,000 stories of those who perished, 300 firemen who gave their lives, multiplied by the thousands of bereaved parents, spouses, children and friends. We are inspired by the stories of volunteers offering comfort, the stories of those miraculously saved, and pray for our brave servicemen fighting terrorism.

There are the brick and mortar issues of whether to rebuild, where, when and how high, but that's a whole other story. Let us focus here on the inside story, the thoughts and feelings inside our minds and hearts, the aftershock, concern and anxiety. So much is happening, so fast.

We've been jolted out of complacency by the explosion of hate and mass murder, and now face a vicious, hideous enemy. We've learned the hard way that terrorism doesn't just happen to others thousands of miles away.

Terrorism should never have been tolerated, and those fighting it should be encouraged, never restricted, admonished, or blamed for causing the problem.

What first seemed to be the story to end all stories is now unfolding as a continuing saga.

The dangerous world of coalition convolutions where Israel is condemned and ostracized for daring to live keeps getting darker and darker.

Thank G‑d for Chanukah, and its not just the same old story again. What happened in 'those days' is most relevant 'in our time.' Indeed, we kindle the Chanukah lights at the very time when it gets dark, and day turns to night.

Now that our physical skyline has fallen, we must raise our spiritual profile. Amid the rubble and wreckage, we must rise to the occasion, stand tall, rebuild our faith and hope, gird and reinforce ourselves by shining through the looming darkness.

Chanukah's eight candles piercing the night are a glimmer of the Messianic light of the future. Until recently, when we felt invincible and the economy was fine, the concept of Moshiach may have seemed unreal and outlandish.

But our current impossible situation cries out for Moshiach and Universal Redemption, when "Darkness covers the nations, and G‑d will shine upon Israel, and His glory will be seen." (Isaiah 60:2)

That's when we will hear the rest of the story.