The chanukah lights increase in number each night. The goodness in our lives and the world are a reflection of the increasing light of Chanukah.
Rabbi Chaim Miller charts the path of the ideal life in this world, and the reality of our lives. When mired in the ups and downs of life, it is difficult to see the constantly upward trend. The challenge is to feel the presence of G-d and be aware of the gains that come through the mistakes and the pain.