The menorah brings together two perspectives-the focus on the present and the aspirations for the future. Successful growth - whether spiritual, intellectual or emotional - must always combine two very different approaches. On the one hand we should always appreciate the infinite potential of our soul and the unlimited capacity to grow into something completely different than we are now. True growth is not just a small token improvement, but rather a fundamental dramatic change of mindset, attitude, and emotional responses. On the other hand we cannot implement this change in one go. While the ultimate goal is drastic change, it has to be accomplished by taking one step at a time.

This is lesson of the Chanukah menorah. We light one small flame at a time, representing small and responsible steps. At the same time we stare at the empty candle holders, reminding ourselves of the greater goal. We light the first, second and third flame one at a time, but aspire to ultimately fill and kindle all of the candle holders.