When you're burning the midnight oil


Hi Reader,

I know this is a tough time of year for many in our sector. Giving season can feel like an exhausting marathon, with so much that needs to go well before getting to the finish line.

I've worked for nonprofits my entire career, and what I love most is that even when it's hard, we each have our own mission-driven why that keeps us going. It reminds us why we do what we do and brightens dark times—for ourselves and for others.

Next week is Chanukah, the Festival of Lights.

And as I tell my kids every year as they light the candles, my favorite part is that the flame is shared without diminishing itself.


One flame lights another, lights another, lights another—and together the brightness grows.

Here’s the part we all need to remember—especially when we’re burning the midnight oil:

Sharing your light doesn’t make it smaller.

Nonprofit work can make it feel like you’re giving pieces of yourself away, but your purpose—your flame—stays whole. Passing it on doesn’t drain you. It reminds you how brightly you already burn.

And when you’re clear on what you do and how you shine that light? That’s when connection happens.

Because clarity creates connection.

If you want someone to share your why with—I'm here for you. Hit reply and tell me: what keeps you going, even when it’s hard?


Wishing you a bright giving season of clarity and connection,

Jordana

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Copyright © 2025 Voice for Good

Jordana Merkin, Voice for Good

Jordana Merkin helps nonprofits clarify their messaging to attract and engage with the right people for them. Subscribe to have actionable nonprofit messaging and communications tips and insights delivered straight to your inbox.

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