Friday, October 3, 2025

We Will Never Stop Dancing

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A Survivor’s Journey from Darkness to Light

A Meaningful Moment in Palmetto Bay

A survivor of the October 7 attack in Israel marked a significant moment at a menorah lighting in Palmetto Bay, Florida, as the fifth night of Hanukkah was observed. The occasion was not only about celebrating the Festival of Lights but also honoring a survivor representing a more recent time of great darkness.

A Journey from Lights to Darkness

Rom El-Hai, who was in Israel 14 months ago, shared his experience of being at the Nova Music Festival, where he suddenly found himself running for his life. "I know October 7 was a journey; it was a journey from lights to darkness. It was a journey from dancing for your life on the dance floor, to just one hour later, you’re hiding in a bush, and you’re praying for your life," he said.

From Running for His Life to Sharing His Story

El-Hai was honored to receive the request to share his story with the community, not just with those who share his faith but with everyone. "It’s no matter if they’re Jewish or not Jewish, which politician they’re voting [for]. It doesn’t matter if people just want to stay together and help each other, and the unity, that’s what helps us to get on our feet and continue to spread light," he said.

A Message of Resilience and Joy

After giving the blessing, it was time to light the candles and enjoy this moment of togetherness. Even after the horror of a terror attack, El-Hai demonstrates resilience, and he said he can still find moments of joy. "Happy Hanukkah, and we will never stop dancing," he said.

A New Tradition in Palmetto Bay

The menorah lighting ceremony in Palmetto Bay started in 2019, and this year, it was a special moment for the community to come together. "The rabbi and I had many, many conversations regarding beginning, in the Village of Palmetto Bay, a menorah lighting," said Palmetto Bay Mayor Karyn Cunningham.

Conclusion

El-Hai’s story serves as a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope and always a way to find joy. As he said, "Happy Hanukkah, and we will never stop dancing." The menorah lighting ceremony in Palmetto Bay was a testament to the power of community and the importance of coming together to spread light and love.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What happened to Rom El-Hai on October 7, 2023?
A: Rom El-Hai was at the Nova Music Festival in Israel, where he suddenly found himself running for his life after a terror attack.

Q: What was the purpose of the menorah lighting ceremony in Palmetto Bay?
A: The ceremony was to honor a survivor of the October 7 attack and to spread light and love in the community.

Q: What is the significance of Hanukkah?
A: Hanukkah is a Jewish holiday that celebrates the rededication of the Temple in Jerusalem during the Maccabean Revolt of the 2nd century BCE and is also a symbol of the struggle between light and darkness.

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