Hag Hanukkah Samaech – Somehow

I had no idea how I could wish people Hag Hanukkah Samaech nine years ago on December 17, 2016, two weeks after Ariel z”l ended his suffering and life by suicide.

I have no idea how we can say Hag Hanukkah Samaech after the massacre in Bondi, Australia.

Nor, can I fathom how the Beautiful Six could possibly have had the fortitude to make blessings over the Hanukkah in the hellish tunnels of Gaza.

Somehow we do – we must.

Somehow- We Jews Ride Through.

Somehow I Ride Through on my personal journey of grief and live life to the fullest.

My beloved son Ariel z”l of blessed memory, ended his suffering and life by suicide after a prolonged struggle with anxiety and depression stemming from OCD –  obsessive compulsive disorder.

Suicide is an extremely painful and complex subject that society often prefers to ignore because of stigma and shame.

Therefore, over the past few years I have been speaking and writing about suicide prevention because I deeply believe that honest and open conversation can help to reduce this epidemic and hopefully save lives. I am also determined to talk and write about resilience, because despite the deep sense of loss and pain, I believe that people can hold sadness and joy side by side and “Ride Through” on the path of life.

Jews celebrate Hanukkah and I celebrate life.

May Ariel’s memory be a blessing and may we all have a Hag Hanukkah Samaech – somehow.