Surviving a Chicago Winter: Share Knowledge and Warmth!
Not all Chicagoland people are natives, and they may not realize what we were born knowing: how to stay warm this winter. Share these tips for surviving Chicago’s Winter 2017 with your neighbors/newcomers, and remember to follow them yourself!
- Cover feet/hands, wrists/ankles: Thin, cloth gloves are great as your layer under thick, waterproof gloves.
- Cover your head/face: Wrap a heavy scarf around your head, under your cap or hat. Try to find one long enough that you can cover your lower face, adding another layer of protection.
- Don’t forget your pets: Sweaters and parkas for your furry friend are advised for intensely cold days.
- Enjoy a warm drink: You might consider taking a thermos of hot coffee, tea, or lemon water with you if you’re outside for any length of time.
- Layer clothing: Chicago winds can penetrate the best jackets! You need at least two layers of clothing, and that includes socks and gloves.
- Protect your lower body: Wear thin, thermal underwear underneath pants. For below zero days, don thicker thermals under and snow pants over.
- Protect your upper body: An insulated parka that’s rated between -10ºF and 0ºF is a good idea. With its nylon exterior, it will also insulate you from freezing rain.
Sharing the Warmth Within Your Heart
Rabbi Elazar Muskin says we should “love kindness*.” You should not only willingly mitzvah; you should do so with warmth and happiness. Charity begins at home. For some of us, the world is “home,” but for many, home is an address or a country.
“Judaism . . . must also teach how to tithe with a smile,” says Rabbi Muskin. When you help others, you feel good about yourself! The volunteers and donors who support Maot Chitim of Greater Chicago are not only a blessing; they are blessed!
Even as we rejoice in the gifts God gave us, we need to help those who are cold and hungry. Chicago is home to many members of our Jewish “family” who are elderly, infirm, and needy. For them, home may be a very cold place that could use warmth inside and out.
*Micha 6:8
