On November 27th the Jewish congregation in my neighborhood celebrated the beginning of Hanukkah. They posted an announcement in the local paper inviting community members to come to the library to learn more about the holiday. Fascinated by Jewish culture and eager to learn more, I responded to the invitation and attended the event. I felt comfortable entering the library, having attended many events in the gathering room where the Jews were assembled. But as soon as I opened the door to the celebration I felt like I had gotten off at the wrong subway stop.
Several tables filled the center of the room, with children surrounding each one. Adult women peered over the shoulders of the children as they helped glue and shape various crafts. At one table, children played with a dreidel. At another they created a menorah.
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