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This year's theme in Olam Chesed is mitzvah and as we approach the Festival of Lights, nestled deep in the darkest time of the year, we've been exploring the metaphor of bringing light into the world through acts of kindness and fulfillment of the commandment ואהבת לרעך כמוך v'ahavta l'reacha kamocha: love the other as you love yourself.  To increase the light we have challenged our students to find at least five ways that even they can bring more light into the world.  They are posting pictures and stories of their mitzvot on an interactive platform and if we reach  Lev makes sure to feed his dog, Winnie, before he sits down to eat.  Ella created Thanksgiving notes and delivered meals to new Americans to help them feel welcome.  She also showed grace after losing a game of chess by high-fiving her opponent.  Sharing these sparks of light brings awareness and hope at a time when we could all use a bit of brightening up!  Two years ago, the JCOGS community brought together an incredible group of people from across faiths and geography to sing together and banish the darkness after the Pittsburgh tragedy.  Click here to watch this inspiring video Increase the Light.