From the Editor's Desk

Hanukkah, the Festival of Lights, is really early this year, really early! By the time you read this issue of Star Tracks the holiday will probably be over. However, Hanukkah's message of miracles, promise and the pursuit of religious freedom is with us always. Of all the celebrations we experience each year, the most meaningful are those we celebrate with family and friends.

The holiday of Hanukkah is especially pleasurable as we pass on our Jewish history, watch our children's delight in lighting the Hanukkiah and feel their anticipation of receiving a small gift or gelt.

We must remember, however, to make sure our children learn the true meaning of Hanukkah: faith and the victory of a small band of Maccabees against a powerful Syrian army. Perseverance, miracles and faith are the real messages.

When we decided to be parents through adoption we took a huge leap of faith. We put our trust in others, the adoption system and the unknown. For many of us, adoption was the one remaining avenue open to parenthood. The road was not always easy but, nevertheless, we persevered. At the end of the road was our miracle, our own festival of light, our very own child!

The symbol of the Maccabees' success is the Hanukkiah. The symbol of our successful journey to parenthood is our newly formed family. May all of us continue to be a symbol of miracles and promise.

Happy Hanukkah!
Debra Berger

...And from the one
remaining flask, a miracle
was wrought.
~~Ma'oz Tzur