One of the things I really love about our community is how we show up for one another. Sometimes it’s one person helping someone through a frustrating task; sometimes it’s the collective warmth of a big crowd celebrating a milestone. These small choices—to be present, to say “yes,” to show up—help ease loneliness, help us get things done, and often turn a simple moment into something memorable.

Recently, I got stuck in one of those classic procrastination loops. You know the kind—where the task gets heavier the longer you avoid it. Eventually, I texted a friend from Temple and asked if she’d come keep me company while I tackled it. That tiny ask made all the difference. Suddenly, I had accountability, support, conversation… and before I knew it, the thing was done. Sometimes showing up means offering help, and sometimes it means letting someone help you.

We feel this same energy in our communal life. Some events draw small circles, others—like the incredible turnout for Mike Stombaugh’s 20th anniversary—fill the room and the spirit. When you all show up like that, it gives me so much hope. It tells me you’re seeing our messages, reading them, and choosing to be part of what’s happening here. Even when attendance varies, your presence always makes an impact.

So, on that note: I’d love to see you at our next Who Nu? event on December 14: The Environment & Preserving Resources. It’s a conversation about what Jewish wisdom teaches us about caring for the physical world, featuring two voices who know this topic well—Jane Grossman, a longtime Temple Sinai member deeply committed to community service, and Brian Beffort, Washoe County Sustainability Manager. Moderated by Rabbi Benjamin, they’ll explore how the story of Chanukah – the oil lasting for 8 days as a unique spin on conserving resources – connects directly to environmental responsibility today. It’s a good one. Come if you can.

And on the subject of Chanukah and showing up in the world: while shopping at Cal Ranch in Carson City, I suddenly heard the dreidel song on their store playlist. Then, Rabbi Sara told me she heard Chanukah music at the Cal Ranch in Reno too! These tiny moments of representation in unexpected places feel surprisingly wonderful—little reminders that our traditions are seen and celebrated.

Even the commercial world is starting to show up for us. I’d like to amplify Lush, the colorful, quirky, eco-minded bath and beauty brand known for its handmade products. They released a legit Chanukah collection this year, including the Sufganiyah Sugar Scrub (tagline: “Are you ready for this jelly?”). I mean… come on. That’s adorable. It’s playful, creative, and a reminder that our holidays can be fun, fresh, and modern.

And of course, our own Temple Sinai holiday gift shop has returned—filled with candles, gelt, wrapping paper, decorations, games, and all the essentials. We know we can’t compete with Amazon or Etsy artisans, but we love offering a little curated corner of Chanukah cheer. Honestly, it’s amazing how many Chanukah options exist nowadays—so many more than many of us grew up with. Even I, usually a bit of a holiday bah-humbug type, find myself smiling at all the creativity out there.

As we head into the season of lights, I hope you’ll keep showing up—at events, for each other, in those small ways that brighten our days. Your presence matters more than you know.

Chanukah sameach,
Tova McGilvray