Bringing Light to a Fellow Jew
One night of Chanukah, after candle-lighting, I burst forth in song and praise of Hashem for all of the miracles which He has done for our nation, in those days, at this time. A man sat beside me, sullen and depressed. He made a face at my singing and ridiculed my spirit. Observing his brooding had an ill effect on my mood, which switched drastically, within a few moments, from one of elevation to one of gloom.
I remained dejected, until I contemplated how great is the influence which one person wields upon another, either for good or for bad.
Just as this man affected me negatively with his moroseness, I could have influenced him positively with my infectious goodwill. We would then both have merited an enlightening Chanukah, illuminated by the glow of the candles.
