Pursuit for Equality in a Democracy

  Darkness Falls Upon the Earth As the day turns into night.   Our people start to gather.   To celebrate a miracle.   From two millennia ago.    When oil in the surrounded Temple.   Was meant to last only for a night.   But lasted for eight.      On a beach in Sydney.   And in the streets of Amsterdam.   The hatred against our beliefs.   The way we worship.   The way we celebrate.   Reared its naïve ugly head.   People with nothing.   But darkness in their hearts.   Tried to snuff out the menorah lights.   But that wouldn’t do.   Thanks to the bravery of a few.     So, on this night.   And for seven more.   Jews across the globe.   Lit their candles.   With family and friends.   Our hearts are heavy, but filled with love.   For the souls we lost    On this Hanukkah night.    

  The summer breeze turns to an autumn wind.    Laughter fills the air as the leaves flitter around.   She runs on the dock trying not to fall.   Hair blowing.   Turning around filled with glee.   Reminds me of Nordic summers that used to be.    Talking in a language.    Only known to her two-year-old self.   How she’s captured my heart!    And my soul.     I look down.   I see her arms stretched out.   Hands twitching back and forth.   She’s as beautiful as her mother.   Her smile warms my body.   Like a blanket on a cold night.      I pick the little one up.   Hold her tight in my arms.   She lays her tiny head on my shoulder.    “Grandpa loves you, Claire.”   A kiss on her cheek.    And she’s off running.    Waiting at the other end of the dock.   Is the only other girl.   Who has a hold on my heart.   For ...