121 - Midlife Changes

I read an interesting book last week: “The Year Mom Got Religion: One Woman’s Midlife Journey Into Judaism” by Lee Meyerhoff Hendler. It had a familiar flavor, as I remembered the true beginning of my own Jewish education, at age 37. I still recall my wonder at finally being able to decipher the Hebrew letters, the sheer joy of chanting Torah, the promise to myself to always light Shabbat and Festival candles. Adults get to choose what they will learn, what path to pursue. How wonderful to know we have chosen wisely.

Two Hundred Twenty-One

Midlife Changes

Removing my glasses, I rub my eyes
As softly, Wings settle, just past focus.
And I croon, ever so softly, the hymn
Of my soul’s yearning.

These many years of striving, my soul
A clear bell tone
Resounding inside me. You heard
And I sang back Your echo tone.

You heard as I filled the silences,
Needing to sing more;
Honored, learning new songs,
Wings fly onward, upward.

I turn and follow the glorious flight
As Shadow spreads over me,
Inviting, sheltering, blessing;
Encouraged, my resolve strengthens.