Sabbath
by Robert Becker 1/17/21
I write today on the Sabbath
a day that’s been set aside
to recharge and to rest.
Instead the nation is ugly today
many with guns on the street
filled with hate and unrest.
A squirrel is on my deck
hurrying to gather up seeds
that have fallen,
under the feeder,
where only the birds
are welcomed to feed.
And people are coming
to the food shelf
to gather up clothing and food.
Their jobs have been lost,
the rent needs to be paid,
as the virus continues to rage.
The dichotomy worries
the hell out of me
as I rest in the warmth of my home.
Waiting and resting
and hoping that all will be well,
even for the least of all those in need.
Give rest to the weary
and to those heavy laden,
words that I’ve heard and have read.
The repose that quickly follows
points out that “they would not
Listen!”