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Letters from Alyssa: What Hanukkah Means to Me

Author

Alyssa Wallack

Date

December 19, 2024

Hi Friend,

As Jewish college students prepare to light this years鈥� Hanukkah candles, I鈥檝e been reflecting on the deeper meaning behind the holiday鈥檚 glow. Hanukkah is often seen as a joyful, fun-filled celebration 鈥� spinning dreidels, eating latkes, and exchanging gifts. And it is! But beyond the festive lights and traditions, there鈥檚 a profound story about Jewish identity and resilience that inspires me.

Hanukkah isn鈥檛 just about the oil that lasted for eight days or even the military victory of the Maccabees against the occupying force of the Seleucid Greeks. It鈥檚 about the Jewish people reclaiming their homeland and reestablishing the right to live as Jews, to practice their traditions openly, and to govern themselves according to their values. 

In many ways, Hanukkah is one of the earliest expressions of Zionism 鈥� the belief in the Jewish right to self-determination in our ancestral homeland. While the term 鈥淶ionism鈥� didn鈥檛 exist in the time of the Maccabees, the spirit of the movement is present in their story. It鈥檚 about a connection to the land of Israel as a central tenet of Jewish identity, and the courage to preserve a way of life that reflects our values and beliefs.

This year, as we light the menorah, I鈥檓 thinking about what it means to rededicate ourselves to that courage and those values. Just as the Maccabees reclaimed the Temple and renewed their commitment to Jewish life, Hanukkah urges us to reflect on how we can carry forward that legacy of resilience and purpose.

To bring more meaning to my Hanukkah celebration this year, I鈥檓:

1. Reclaiming time for what matters: With life moving so fast, Hanukkah gives me a chance to slow down. Each night, I鈥檓 taking a moment to reflect on my Jewish identity 鈥� what it means to me, how I express it, and how I want to grow in the coming year.
2. Lighting the menorah with intention: Each candle is more than just a light; it鈥檚 a reminder of the miracles we experience every day 鈥� the moments of hope and strength that make life meaningful.
3. Sharing the story: I鈥檓 inviting friends 鈥� both Jewish and non-Jewish 鈥� to light the menorah with me and learn about Hanukkah鈥檚 deeper message. Celebrating together is a powerful example of how traditions like these continue to connect people.

For me, Hanukkah is a celebration of identity and values, showing us that the choices we make today can inspire not just this holiday, but generations to come.

Wishing you a Hanukkah filled with light, meaning, and the courage to lift up the ideas and values that are important to you.

Chag Urim sameach,
Alyssa

Originally from Los Angeles, Alyssa Wallack is a senior at the University of Southern California. A passionate advocate for Jewish and Israel-related causes, she鈥檚 now interning with 黑料传送门. When not immersed in her studies or various fellowships, Alyssa loves exploring LA鈥檚 food scene and connecting with fellow students about all things Jewish.

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Letters from Alyssa: Why Finding Gratitude is a Jewish Value

Author

Alyssa Wallack

Date

November 26, 2024

Hi Friend,

The other morning, I was doing my usual rush to grab coffee between classes (if you know me, you know I pretty much live on coffee). Before I could say anything, Maria, the barista who has been my morning lifeline for four years, was already reaching for my cup. “Oat milk latte for Alyssa?鈥� she asked. 

Suddenly,  this simple interaction made me pause. In Judaism, there is a  beautiful value called hakarat hatov 鈥� which literally means “recognizing the good.” It’s about actively noticing and acknowledging the blessings in our lives, from the biggest moments to the smallest interactions.

Here’s what I love about hakarat hatov 鈥� it’s not just about feeling grateful, it’s about recognizing the source of every moment of goodness. It’s about understanding that my morning coffee isn’t just about the drink. It’s about Maria, who remembers my order, and has been a small, yet integral, part of my college journey. It’s about recognizing that, even in challenging times, threads of connection and kindness weave through our daily lives.

Ahead of Thanksgiving, it鈥檚 also worth recognizing that Judaism鈥檚 conception of gratitude is much deeper than just saying thank you. When we practice hakarat hatov, we’re actually fulfilling a mitzvah, a sacred obligation to bring more holiness into the world.

Judaism teaches us to notice the good, to acknowledge it, and to never take it for granted. Whether it’s saying the shehecheyanu blessing, a blessing to mark new beginnings, lighting Shabbat candles on Friday nights, or even saying a simple blessing before we eat 鈥� our tradition gives us so many opportunities to pause and practice hakarat hatov. These moments of gratitude aren’t just rituals; they’re reminders to stop and recognize the goodness around us.

So this Thanksgiving, as we gather around tables laden with turkey (or tofurky!) and stuffing, we’re actually participating in a practice that is deeply connected to Jewish values. We’re not only celebrating an American holiday 鈥� we’re fulfilling a sacred obligation to recognize and acknowledge the good in our lives.

Here’s how I’m planning to bring more intentional gratitude into my Thanksgiving this year:

1. Before the meal: Instead of the usual, quick “what are you thankful for?” roundtable, I’m going to invite my family to share a moment when someone else at the table impacted their life positively this year. It’s one thing to say I鈥檓 grateful for my family; it’s another to specifically acknowledge how we have blessed each others鈥� lives.
2. During the meal: I’m challenging myself to practice gratitude for things we often take for granted. The farmers who grew our food, the workers who transported it, the people who stocked the grocery shelves 鈥� our Thanksgiving meals are possible because of countless individuals, many whom we’ll never meet.
3. After the meal: I’m planning to write thank you notes to people who have impacted my life this year but might not know it 鈥� professors who wrote recommendations, the campus maintenance staff who always greet me with a smile, and the barista who remembers my order.

The beauty of hakarat hatov is that it’s about more than feeling grateful 鈥� it’s about expressing gratitude in ways that strengthen our connections and make goodness more visible in the world. When we acknowledge the good we receive, we become more aware of opportunities to create good for others.

So this Thanksgiving, as you pass the cranberry sauce and debate whether pumpkin or apple pie is superior (apple, obviously!), remember you’re not just participating in an American tradition. You’re engaging in the sacred Jewish practice of hakarat hatov, bringing more awareness, more connection, and more holiness into the world.

Wishing you a Thanksgiving filled with awareness of all the blessings that surround you,

Take good care, 

Alyssa

Originally from Los Angeles, Alyssa Wallack is a senior at the University of Southern California. A passionate advocate for Jewish and Israel-related causes, she’s now interning with 黑料传送门. When not immersed in her studies or various fellowships, Alyssa loves exploring LA’s food scene and connecting with fellow students about all things Jewish.

The post Letters from Alyssa: Why Finding Gratitude is a Jewish Value appeared first on 黑料传送门.

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Letters from Alyssa: My Journey to Understanding Voting as a Mitzvah

Author

Alyssa Wallack

Date

October 28, 2024

During my sophomore year at the University of Southern California, I took a course focused on Jewish ethics and civic responsibility. While I grew up hearing about the importance of voting from my parents and grandparents, this was the first time I connected the dots between my Jewish identity and my role as a citizen.

Our group discussions often centered around the concept of tikkun olam鈥�repairing the world. We talked about how every action we take, no matter how small, can contribute to making the world a better place. One evening, our instructor asked us, “How does voting fit into tikkun olam?”

Initially, I was stumped. Sure, voting was important, but was it really as instrumental in improving the world as direct community service or charitable giving? As we delved deeper into Jewish texts and their modern interpretations, I began to see voting in a new light.

We learned about the Talmudic principle of “dina d’malchuta, dina” – the law of the land is binding. In a democracy, we have the unique opportunity to participate in creating these laws. By voting, we’re not just following the law, but actively shaping it to reflect our values.

The Torah commands us: Justice, justice shall you pursue (Deuteronomy 16:20). Our instructor challenged us to think about how voting allows us to pursue justice on a larger scale than we could as individuals.

As the election season approached, coupled with my new understanding, I got involved with voter registration drive initiatives. I was surprised by how many of my fellow students weren’t registered to vote or didn’t think their vote mattered.

I found myself sharing what I’d learned in the course. “In Jewish tradition, every single action matters,” I explained to them, “The Talmud teaches that saving one life is like saving an entire world. Your one vote might seem small, but it has the power to make a real difference.”

The more I talked about voting as a Jewish value, the more I internalized it myself. I realized that by participating in elections, I am honoring the generations before me who didn’t have this right. 

As I cast my ballot this November, I will do so with a sense of pride and connection to my Jewish identity. Voting isn鈥檛 just about fulfilling a civic duty – it is about living out our Jewish values in a tangible way.

To my fellow Jewish students,: Your vote is more than just a choice on a ballot. It’s a way to pursue justice, to take responsibility for your community, and to work toward tikkun olam. It’s a mitzvah – a sacred obligation and opportunity.

So when Election Day comes, embrace this mitzvah. Head to the polls, cast your ballot, and know that you’re participating in a deeply Jewish act. Your voice matters 鈥� let it be heard!

Take good care,

Alyssa

Alyssa Wallack is a USC senior from Los Angeles. A passionate advocate for Jewish and Israel-related causes, she’s now interning with 黑料传送门. When not immersed in her studies or various fellowships, Alyssa loves exploring LA’s food scene and connecting with fellow students about all things Jewish.

Letters from Alyssa is a series of reflections and advice from Alyssa Wallack, a senior at USC and a 黑料传送门 Intern.

Learn more about MitzVote, 黑料传送门’s nonpartisan civic engagement initiative.

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Letters from Alyssa: On Simchat Torah, Dancing Harder and Remembering Forever

Author

Alyssa Wallack

Date

October 21, 2024

Hi Friend,

As Simchat Torah approaches, I find myself caught in a whirlwind of emotions. It’s been a year since that terrible day when joy turned to tragedy, and the festival that celebrates our love for Torah became forever linked with a massacre in Israel that killed over 1,200 people. But as I reflect on what Simchat Torah means this year, I’m struck by how its very essence speaks to resilience and hope.

Simchat Torah, at its core, is about endings and beginnings. Jewish people around the world finish reading the Torah, and in the same breath, we start again. It’s a beautiful reminder that, in Jewish tradition, endings aren’t really endings at all 鈥� they’re opportunities for renewal, for carrying forward what we’ve learned into a new phase of our lives.

This year, that symbolism feels more poignant than ever. As we remember the October 7, 2023 attacks that occurred on Simchat Torah, we’re renewing our commitment to life, to joy, and to the values that define us, even amid our continued grief. We’re carrying the memories of those we lost with us as we step into a new year, a new cycle of Torah, and a new chapter in our collective story.

I’ve been thinking a lot about the Nova Music Festival, where more than 360 people were murdered last October, and how the event was meant to embody the spirit of celebration that Simchat Torah is all about. Those young people were dancing, full of life and joy. This year, we have a chance 鈥� no, a responsibility 鈥� to dance in their honor, with more passion and purpose than ever before.

So this Simchat Torah, here’s what I’m planning to do:

Dance with intention: When I join the hakafot, the celebratory practice of dancing with the Torah, I’ll be thinking of those who can’t dance with us this year. Each step will be a tribute, each twirl an act of defiance against those who sought to extinguish our joy.

Learn something new: I’m committing to studying a new piece of Torah in honor of those we lost. Though their lives were cut short, their legacy can continue through our learning and growth.

Reach out and connect: I’m going to invite friends 鈥� Jewish and non-Jewish alike 鈥� to join in our celebration. By sharing our traditions and our resilience, we build bridges and strengthen our community.

Create a moment of remembrance: Before the festivities begin, I’m going to suggest a moment of silence among my Hillel community, to acknowledge that our celebration is made more meaningful by remembering.

Look to the future: As we start reading the Torah again, I’m going to reflect on new beginnings I want to create in my own life, inspired by the strength of the Jewish community.

Simchat Torah teaches us that endings and beginnings are intertwined. We don’t forget what’s behind us as we move forward 鈥� we carry it with us, letting it inform our steps and strengthen our resolve. This year, our dancing will be a powerful statement: that joy persists, that life moves forward, and that the legacy of those we’ve lost continues within us.

As we celebrate this Simchat Torah, let’s dance harder, sing louder, and love deeper. Let’s show the world the unbreakable spirit of our people. In doing so, we honor not just our Torah, but also those whose memories are inextricably linked with this holiday.

Wishing you a Simchat Torah filled with meaning, joy, deep connection, and the strength that comes from a community united in celebration and remembrance.

Chag Sameach,

Alyssa

Originally from Los Angeles, Alyssa Wallack is a senior at the University of Southern California. A passionate advocate for Jewish and Israel-related causes, she’s now interning with 黑料传送门. When not immersed in her studies or various fellowships, Alyssa loves exploring LA’s food scene and connecting with fellow students about all things Jewish.

Letters from Alyssa is a series of reflections and advice from Alyssa Wallack, a 黑料传送门 Intern.聽

The post <strong>Letters from Alyssa: On Simchat Torah, Dancing Harder and Remembering Forever</strong> appeared first on 黑料传送门.

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Letters from Alyssa: Let鈥檚 Talk 黑料传送门 Yom Kippur

Author

Alyssa Wallack

Date

October 11, 2024

Hi Friend,

With Yom Kippur approaching, and with the intensity of this week鈥檚 commemoration of the October 7 attacks, I’ve been reflecting on what this holiday really means to me. Growing up, I heard all these daunting things about how I was supposed to act on Yom Kippur: fasting, wearing white clothes, and disconnecting from electronics. And the more I thought about it, the more I realized that all of these practices have one thing in common: they’re intended to cultivate deeper connection and reflection, free from distraction. Whether you鈥檙e looking for a connection to religion, to your community, or to yourself, these Jewish practices and traditions  are all intended to help you find meaning and connection on Yom Kippur.

This led me to some pretty big realizations. For me, it鈥檚 all about relationships, including my relationship with my religion, with myself, and with my community.聽 And part of deepening those relationships means being a person of integrity, looking for ways to grow as an individual, and building connections that help give my life purpose. So while, on the surface, Yom Kippur might seem like a straightforward religious observance with its fasting and traditions, I鈥檝e come to see it as something more 鈥� a powerful opportunity to focus on the most meaningful aspects of my life.

Yom Kippur is like hitting a pause button on life鈥檚 chaos. It’s a chance to quiet down all the noise, and focus on what鈥檚 truly important. I鈥檓 planning to do the following as part of my observance this year: 

1. Before Shabbat, I鈥檓 going to reach out to a friend I drifted apart from to try to reconnect. It’s never too late to say 鈥淚鈥檓 sorry鈥� or 鈥淐an we talk?鈥� This act of teshuva (repentance or return) isn’t just about apologizing; it’s about rebuilding connections.
2. I’m setting aside some quiet time for cheshbon hanefesh (self-reflection). I鈥檒l be thinking about moments I鈥檓 proud of from this past year, as well as areas where I hope to grow. It鈥檚 not about being hard on myself, but about understanding myself better.
3. I’m making an effort to connect deeply with my community, including joining a pre-fast dinner with friends 黑料传送门, and calling family members. Before, throughout, and after the holiday, I鈥檓 focusing on strengthening these important relationships.

Even if fasting or attending services isn’t what you鈥檙e looking for, maybe there鈥檚 a way you鈥檇 like to mark the day that feels meaningful to you. It could be as simple as taking a quiet walk, spending time in meditation, or having a thoughtful conversation with a friend or family member about your hopes for the coming year. It’s not about perfection; it’s about connection. 

 However you find your own meaningful way to mark Yom Kippur, I hope it brings you some peace and clarity.

Wishing you a Shabbat shalom and Yom Kippur filled with warmth, connection, and growth. If you鈥檙e fasting, I hope it is an easy one! G鈥檓ar chatima tovah, may we all be sealed in the Book of Life!

Take good care,聽
Alyssa

Originally from Los Angeles, Alyssa Wallack is a senior at the University of Southern California. A passionate advocate for Jewish and Israel-related causes, she’s now interning with 黑料传送门. When not immersed in her studies or various fellowships, Alyssa loves exploring LA’s food scene and connecting with fellow students about all things Jewish.

Letters from Alyssa is a series of reflections and advice from Alyssa Wallack, a 黑料传送门 Intern. Read Alyssa’s recommendations for approaching your professors about missing class on the High Holidays.

The post Letters from Alyssa: Let鈥檚 Talk 黑料传送门 Yom Kippur appeared first on 黑料传送门.

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Letters from Alyssa: How to Talk to Your Professors 黑料传送门 the High Holidays

Author

Alyssa Wallack

Date

September 13, 2024

Hi Friend,

I鈥檓 Alyssa, a senior at the University of Southern California, and I’ve been through the “How do I tell my professors I need time off for the High Holidays?” process a few times now. Trust me, I know how nerve-wracking it can be, especially if you’re new to campus. As the fall semester begins, Jewish students are faced with this familiar dilemma: how to balance academic responsibilities with the importance of observing the High Holidays. I still remember feeling like my stomach was doing somersaults the first time I had to approach my professors about requesting time off.

But after a few years of navigating the High Holidays on campus (and realizing professors are actually pretty understanding about it), I’ve got some tips to share. Whether you’re a freshman just starting out or a fellow upperclassman who still gets a little anxious about this, you’re not alone. Here’s some advice to help you handle this situation with confidence and authenticity. Let’s walk through this together.

Start Early, Plan Ahead

The key to minimizing anxiety in this process is early preparation. As soon as you receive your syllabus, check whichever dates of Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, and Sukkot that you鈥檒l be celebrating against your class schedule. Ideally, you should approach your professors within the first few weeks of classes. This gives them plenty of time to consider your request and make any necessary adjustments.

Remember, professors are used to students requesting time off for various reasons. By being proactive, you’re demonstrating responsibility and respect for their time and learning environment.

Be Clear and Confident

When you speak with your professors, be clear about your needs. Explain that you’ll be observing the Jewish High Holidays, and will need to miss class on specific dates. It’s okay to be straightforward 鈥� you’re not asking for special treatment, but for the opportunity to practice your faith.

Here’s a sample script you might use:

“Professor [Name], I hope you鈥檙e doing well. I wanted to let you know that I will not be in class on [dates], as I will be observing the Jewish High Holidays of Rosh Hashanah/Yom Kippur/Sukkot. I was hoping we could discuss how I can make up any work or assignments I might miss during this time. Thank you so much for understanding, and I look forward to seeing you in class!”

Your heritage and beliefs are meaningful parts of who you are. Embracing them on campus allows you to live authentically and be true to yourself, which adds so much to your community.

Offer Solutions

Come prepared with ideas on how you’ll catch up on missed work. Will you get notes from a classmate? Can you complete assignments ahead of time? By showing that you’ve thought this through, you’re demonstrating your commitment to both your faith and your studies.

Know Your Rights and Seek Support

Many universities have policies protecting students’ rights to observe religious holidays. Familiarize yourself with your school’s policy, and to safety, security, and full and equal participation at school more generally. This knowledge can give you confidence in your conversations with professors. 

If you’re feeling unsure or anxious about these conversations, remember that you’re not alone. Reach out to your campus Hillel or the office of religious life for support. They can offer advice, resources, and sometimes even advocate on your behalf. Find your Hillel here. 

Embrace the Opportunity

While it might feel challenging, this situation is actually an opportunity. By having these conversations, you’re not just securing time off for an important purpose 鈥� you’re educating others about Jewish traditions and practicing skills like self-advocacy and time management.

Remember, observing the High Holidays doesn’t make you less of a student. In fact, the reflection and renewal central to this time can enhance your academic experience, providing perspective and renewed focus for the semester ahead.

As you prepare for these conversations, take a deep breath and remember: you’ve got this. Your Jewish identity is a source of strength, not a hindrance. By advocating for your needs, you’re honoring your heritage and setting yourself up for a meaningful High Holiday observance and a successful semester.

Wishing you a fulfilling spiritual season and a great start to your academic year. Shanah tovah!

Take good care,

Alyssa

Originally from Los Angeles, Alyssa Wallack is a senior at the University of Southern California. A passionate advocate for Jewish and Israel-related causes, she’s now interning with 黑料传送门. When not immersed in her studies or various fellowships, Alyssa loves exploring LA’s food scene and connecting with fellow students about all things Jewish.

Letters from Alyssa is a series of reflections and advice from Alyssa Wallack, a 黑料传送门 Intern. Read Alyssa’s thoughts on how she’s navigating Yom Kippur this year.

The post Letters from Alyssa: How to Talk to Your Professors 黑料传送门 the High Holidays appeared first on 黑料传送门.