First Night of Chanukah

We went downtown for a movie
Near an upscale place for food
Filled with kiosks, booths and dining
For whatever suits your mood.

I tried ice cream made with squid ink –
Smooth but black as darkest night,
Also cold-brew coffee flavor
On a cone, a pure delight.

But attracted by some singing,
We walked by to check it out.
When we saw a huge menorah,
We knew what it was about.

For tonight we light a candle,
After sunset, for the start
Of a holiday called Chanukah,
Which sets the Jews apart.

But New York’s the home to many,
Lots of whom were gathered ‘round
To join in the candle-lighting
And the songs which did resound.

It felt good to be a witness
To a most amazing thing –
Total strangers linked together
And the joy that it can bring.