Yizkor

rows of empty pews

It feels strange having this holy day without you
though in truth
it still feels odd
that any day goes on without you.
Your name has changed where it sits on my lips
from healing and hope
to memory and mourning.
I thought
because you were young
and strong, healthy, smart
that you would fight your disease
the way you fought all your law cases
the way you played baseball
the way you raised your kids
with gusto, verve, courage, honesty
and aggressive tenacity.
And you did
But cancer fought too
How many years you used to come and sit in the congregation
saying your mother’s name for Yizkor
sitting with my mother
as you both remembered your early losses
But you had each other
And now – too early in life –
I will read your name for Yizkor
the list of remembrance grows longer
as the pews of loved ones who will be missed start to feel endless
like gaps in the fabric of my being
Life pushes forward regardless
finding
wholeness with the holes.

Share on facebook
Facebook
Share on twitter
Twitter
Share on email
Email

Ritualwell content is available for free thanks to the generous support of readers like you! Please help us continue to offer meaningful content with a donation today. 

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Related Rituals

Shop Ritualwell - Discover unique Judaica products

The Reconstructionist Network

Jewish tradition is a storehouse of wisdom and practical application on how to navigate the world of conflict and how we respond to it. In this Immersion, we will explore what conflict transformation might look like in our times. Six sessions starting April 4th.

Get the latest from Ritualwell

Subscribe for the latest rituals, online learning opportunities, and unique Judaica finds from our store.