Wednesday, September 26, 2012

Coexist: A poem, a prayer on Yom Kippur 5773

On this holy of holiest days in the Jewish religion, Yom Kippur 5773, I pray for outstanding human development and evolution, a quantum leap, that puts an end to the madness of war raged in the name of religion. May we each be peacefully free to attend to the matters of our spirit in any way as long as it extends respect and peace to others.
Tradition has it that on this day, Jewish people gather together in the community of their loved ones for a day of fasting, remembrance, and atonement. At sunset we break the fast together in joy and anticipation of new, good year to come. Today I fast alone and instead, put together a community of you who are so dear to my heart. 

You are Jews, Christians, atheists, and others. You live around the globe, but most importantly, in my heart. If I could pluck religion from the equation you are the ones I'd prefer to spend today with, in reflection and conversation. A gathering with you each, with you all would make a fine party indeed. 

So, on this Yom Kippur I pray for our ultimate human enlightenment. For a time when the world is free of the tyranny of oppression. Where each individual is truly free to practice her/his beliefs in peace so long as they do no harm to others. This is how I've decided to spend my holy day. 

This morning, spent in quiet contemplation, I wrote a poem that explains how my soul that has been in mourning is now free as well. I should consider myself blessed to find another soul who wishes to walk along life's path with me in close harmony. 

May your autumn be filled with the fruits of the harvest! 
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A Yom Kippur Prayer

The contours of my heart need paving
A sealant of comfort and care
To line those fine cracks  
And crevices of your love lost

My soul wants mating
Not kinetic sparks but
A solid ray to twine with mine
Forming that better brighter beam

My mind seeks a partner
To match it wit for wit
Not in competition but collaboration
A happy equal who also
Cherishes the rise another provides

Let them blow the ram’s horn in heaven
Where you flew
Signal to the earthly ones
She is healed she is love she awaits

©Susan Schaefer
On Yom Kippur 5773/26 September 2012