The Jewish holiday of Lag B’omer is traditionally celebrated with large gatherings and a bonfire, symbolic of this holy day and the power of light and learning. It also celebrates the day that the students of the great scholar and teacher, Rabbi Akiva, stopped dying from a plague during the beginning of the second century. Needless to say, this year as Jews worldwide celebrated this holy day while facing a global pandemic, it was meaningful on a whole new level. In many Jewish communities, it was commemorated with a car parade so that many could participate but in a safe, socially-distanced way. And more so, these car parades were not only to honor the holiday, but also to thank all of the first responders who have been risking their lives to help others. Here is a video clip from the Kindness Parade that took place in Burlington, Vermont for Lag B’omer.
