The way

Interpretive translation of Psalm 1, dedicated to Eric L.Herzog (composed on Hevraya winter retreat 2026)

Soul rooted are those who have not become like stones in the field,

Nor stood fixed on a mound of earth,

Nor sit star-spangled and tangled in magical ropes.

Curious ones listen and know there are lands unseen,

there is a murmur day and night that calls Lech lecha (Go forth…)

and we bow as branches, webbed like brain synapses,

lightening flashes sending signs

to rest among subtle, soft seed pods and unfurling tender knocks

to our hardened hearts.

Winds rage, sirens blast, with fear pouncing in the wake.

Lost at the crossroads, eyelids heavy with grief,

we take hold and we are held.

Lechi lach whispers in the gentleness,

kicks up dust clouds and altars of light as we make our way,

returning home once again.