It is with a heavy heart that I announce my retirement. I have thoroughly enjoyed interacting with every one of you through this column. I plan to travel, spend time with my family (especially my grandchildren), spend time in my kitchen perfecting the art of baking Challah, and make more Matzo Ball Soup to share with friends and family. I am hoping that Nashville will start an annual Matzo Ball Soup contest and I will be sure to return to enter my famous that would win the golden ladle.

During my time with JFS, I have created deep relationships with the staff and wholeheartedly believe in the work they do. They have decided to keep the column but change the format to a group effort so you can hear from all the staff at JFS. Each staff person will be taking a turn talking about their work, perspectives, and inspirations as it relates to the community. I have agreed to remain open to being a guest columnist as needed.

As we approach Hanukkah, the Festival of Lights, let’s keep in mind that each one of us has the ability to be a beacon of light in someone’s darkness. Live each day as a Shamash, the helper candle of the menorah, spreading joy and light whenever possible. You don’t have to do big things or save someone’s life to make an impact. Sometimes it’s the littlest things have the most impact on a person’s life.

Jewish Family Service is the Shamash candle of this community, spreading light where darkness exists.

L’hitraot (Until we meet again),

Esther