By Senator, Lena C. Taylor

State Senator Lena C. Taylor

On this Sunday at sundown, the last day of the holy Jewish holiday of Hanukkah ends. Hannukah commemorates the rededication of the Holy Temple of Jerusalem in the 2nd century BC. I would like to sincerely wish all my Jewish constituents a Happy Hanukkah, and Happy Holidays to all!

Whether you celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, and any other holiday this December, I think we can all agree on that which matters to us most in these times: family and friends. In the midst of a dreary economic climate and in the aftermath of two heated years of political turmoil, we have not lost sight of what is truly important in life: love, friendship, respect for our fellow neighbors, and a willingness to give back to the community.

Although we all love getting and giving gifts (I know that I do!), we should always remember that holidays are also about more than personal possessions. More than anything, this is a time when people matter. Our families, neighbors, and the least among us should all be in the forefront of our minds during this season. This is also a difficult time for far too many, with the cold of winter and still too-high unemployment taking its toll.

We face many difficulties in our time, and that much is certain. From issues with the Milwaukee Police Department and the Police and Fire Commission to oncoming Republican attempts to make voting more difficult, we face innumerable challenges. Nevertheless, I believe that by educating and involving the people, we can solve these problems.

As a Senator in Wisconsin, I consider it my duty to not surrender to the idea that these times will always be difficult for my community. I continue to fight each and every day to make sure that the future of our children is faceas bright as the lights trimming our houses and streets.

This year, let us be thankful for all that we have and for the hope that sustains us. Because despite the cold of winter, I believe that we SHALL still overcome. I believe we WILL walk hand in hand. In this holiday season, we are perhaps at our most hopeful. In this holiday season, we have the unique ability to touch the lives of others and give back.

So while the bitter weather may remind us of our many hardships, we may also reflect on our many blessings. Without the loved ones in our lives, we would have such trouble making it through some of our most difficult hardships, and without those same friends and family members, our many blessings would never seem so sweet.

I for one cannot help but express the deepest gratitude for those I share my life with, from my neighbors and staff to my closest family members and, of course, my son.

Again, I wish you all the very happiest of all holidays! This is an incredibly special time of the year. Many blessings upon you!

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