Wind freshened,
steeped in October rain,
the dry land opens
to autumn’s blessing.
I search my soul
for burdens I preserve,
curses I repeat
this day of grace.
Rooted like a tree,
I drink deep
the waters of forgiveness,
letting my soul rise
on wings of new life.
Yom Kippur, 2025
photo by Louis MacKenzie
Reading of “Day of Grace” with music by Samuel Barber
Don — Well, this poem is PERFECT! The verse, Lou’s photo, the music of Samuel Barber. All of it!
“I drink deep
the waters of forgiveness,
letting my soul rise
on wings of new life.”
Most of us septuagenarians, if we’re lucky, have learned that forgiving oneself for past trespasses (perceived or real) is one of the keys to a contented, happy life. Amen to forgiveness. Yom Kippur.
Beautiful reminder, Rabbi Hynes,,,
Love & Blessings.
Don, a New Yorker like you can search his soul and find plenty of curses needing repentance. I like the reflection at the time of Yom Kippur. Mike McCauley’s rambling, sycophantic note is good, too.
Thank you for this beautiful expression of transcendence, perfectly surrounded by Samuel Barber’s music.
“I drink deep the waters of forgiveness…”
Very evocative, Don. Nice.
As the rattle of the door becomes more than beckoning I open to the words-have a feel for the winter but don’t have a cold heart.
A nagging curse absorbs into a blessing that can extend far and wide.
Thank you brother for easing these bottom lines in lieu the sweet freedom of forgiveness.
Yes perfect
Oneself
Others
The whole arrangement of things