The Sabbath (dedicated with much love to my mother)

On the Sabbath Eve

my mother’s hands circulate above

and around the flickering candles,

wafting the pungent smoke

toward her face and up to heaven

as she murmurs prayers to God,

The Holy one is He.

She remembers

parents, family, and friends

now departed from this world

and she prays in silence

for children gone astray:

‘Protect them Oh Lord,

for they are lost.

Give them the strength to find Your path.

Bless all children in all generations;

may they find love and live good lives.

Amen.’

Tears of joy and sorrow

fill her eyes.

The Sabbath has begun.