This year, Hanukkah launches the holiday season, beginning at sundown on the December 12.  This is a holiday that is also known as the "Festival of Lights."  Over 200 years before Christ, after fighting a battle for years, a Jewish tribe took back their temple, which needed to be cleansed and rededicated.  There was only enough consecrated olive oil to fuel the eternal flame in the temple for one day.  Miraculously, the oil burned for eight days, which was the length of time it took to press, prepare and consecrate fresh olive oil.

Currently, the Festival of Lights brings hope to all that we all can overcome tremendous odds.  And isn't that what hope is all about?

December 18 is the Islamic New Year. Also known as Al Hijra, it is the day Mohammed began his migration from Mecca to Medina in the Islamic year 1 (622 AD).  This is not a big holiday with lots of festivities for Muslims.  Rather, they reflect on Mohammed's migration and all they have today.  This also brings about hope.

Christmas comes on the 25th.  This is the celebrated day of the birth of Jesus of Nazareth.  It was told by Angels that Jesus was to be The Christ, which is translated from the Greek word Khristos, which means "The Anointed."  In Hebrew, The Messiah translates to "Anointed One."

Jesus of Nazareth did not come to start a new religion.  He came to reform Judaism:

"I AM the light of the World;
Whoever follows Me shall not walk in darkness

Now that's what I call HOPE.

Kwanzaa is celebrated on the 26th of December.  Kwanzaa is a unique African-American festival that focuses on the traditional African values of family, community responsibility, commerce and self-improvement, which all bring about hope.

In years past, even during times of war, this season of the year has brought peace.  During different wars, temporary truces have been declared in an acknowledgment of hope and peace.

I challenge you . . . myself . . . all of us . . . to feel, see, talk and act as people with hope.  It is easier to do during this month, I assure you.  First, find the Peace and Hope within you, and then walk in that space throughout your day, spreading it wherever you go.

This is traditionally the period when many of us start reflecting on what we have (or have not done) to improve the quality of our lives over the past year.  By the same token, we contemplate the steps we can take to enhance our lives in the coming year.

If you fall into the latter category, I encourage you to visit Transformation Through Empowerment, to learn about Empowerment Methodology, which teaches you to dream boldly and courageously to develop a comprehensive vision for your life that creates increased happiness, success and freedom.    

Elizabeth Brown, the founder of Transformation Through Empowerment, is a Certified Empowerment Coach and Certified Public Accountant who offers Life Coaching and Financial Freedom coaching, and teaches Emotional Freedom Technique.

This just might be the best gift you give yourself this (or any other) holiday season.