She lived a 100-year span, Jean,
our grandmother, who summons us
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one by one in those last days
for words, perhaps
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wisdom. When it’s my turn
she dispatches the others to the kitchen,
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motions me over, whispers
Liebkind, darling,
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followed by long Yiddish sentences
I can’t translate.
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When JacobLit. heel Jacob is the third patriarch, son of Isaac and Rebecca, and father to the twelve tribes of Israel. More than any of the other patriarchs, Jacob wrestles with God and evolves from a deceitful, deal-making young man to a mature, faithful partner to God. His Hebrew name is Yaakov. summoned his kin
to his deathbed, his favored
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and unfavored sons,
he offered images for each
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of springs and livestock,
men with strength like lions,
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building havens for ships,
tending vineyards,
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shouldering burdens,
or striking like vipers when angered.
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And for JosephJacob's eldest son by his beloved wife, Rachel. Joseph, the dreamer, was his father's favorite and nearly murdered by his brothers. Sold into slavery, he became viceroy of Egypt where he ultimately saves the Egyptians and also his own family from starvation. His Hebrew name is Yosef/, the promise
of racing on hillsides like a colt.
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Was this advice to build
a vibrant life?
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Jacob gave his blessings,
although some say he faltered,
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eyes dim, mistaking grandsons,
Menasseh for Ephraim.
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So who does my grandmother
think I am?
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Her mother, her sister?
Is she recounting secrets
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already lost?
I grasp her hands, whisper
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love and let words
drift in air, then burst.
One Response
She lived, indeed! Cathy, a heartfelt reflection. A moment you have captured in whispers of love.