To the editor: About Eli Federman's article on Christmas lightsThere is nothing wrong with lighted Hanukkah decorations. After all, Hanukkah is the Festival of Lights, a holiday that celebrates Jews who fought pressure to adapt to a culture that was not their own.
Christmas has been in our faces and ears since Halloween: lights, music, store displays, commercials and more. Isn't that enough? Jews don't miss out on light, beauty, or anything else when celebrating Hanukkah.
Being Jewish is enough. And being Jewish doesn't mean you can't enjoy the beauty of the season.
But Hanukkah is No Jewish Christmas.
Jo Perry, City of Study
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To the editor: One thing the writer left out: Since the eight days of Hanukkah begin on Christmas, the Jewish holiday will extend into the first days of January. That is, most 2025 calendars will include two Hanukkahs: one at the beginning and one near the end. And with what the world will look like in 2024, next year we'll need as much light as we can get!
Hank Rosenfeld, Santa Monica
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To the editor: My youngest son was raised in the Jewish faith but had seen the “Peanuts” Christmas Special analyzed by the author of the opinion article many times. Then, one Christmas Eve, he attended midnight mass with his Catholic grandparents. When the Gospel of Luke was read during Mass, he whispered to them in amazement: “I didn't know the Gospel quoted 'Peanuts!' It was truly a work that unified all people, if not in the spirit of “Christmas,” then at least in the spirit of peace and goodwill for all.
Jane Diamante, Sherman Oaks
