השיבנו
Take us back, Eternal One!
Take us back to when we could absorb
The impact of each death
Before having to deal with the next,
And the next and the next …
Take us back , Eternal One,
Take us back to when we could visit
Our loved ones in the hospital
Our friends in their homes,
Our favorite stores and restaurants.
Take us back, Eternal One,
Take us back to a time we could embrace
Those we wish to embrace
And refrain from embracing
Out of choice, not necessity.
Take us back, Eternal One,
Take us back to when Food Banks were full
And the lines of those in need
Did not extend for miles.
Take us back to a time when connecting by computer
Was a supplement to
Not a substitute for
Connecting in person.
השיבנו ה׳ ונשובה.
חדש ימנו כקדם
Take us back, Eternal one,
And we shall return.
Renew our days as of old.
(Lamentations 5:21)
Published by slfuchs
Loving husband, father, grandfather and rabbi. Author of, "What's in It for Me? Finding Ourselves in Biblical Narratives,” "ToraHighlights,” “Why the Kof?,” “Why Triple Chai?,” "Who Created God?," and "...And Often the First Jew."
On October 17, 2017, Rabbi Fuchs was selected as the recipient of the Vanderbilt Divinity School's Distinguished Alumnus Award. To be considered for this award, one must demonstrate excellence and distinction in justice-making through their efforts in congregational ministry, religious institutions, non-denominational/all-inclusive organizations, community–based organizations, government, or other social institutions.
Spent last four falls serving in Milan, Italy, (2013) and Germany (2014-2016). Otherwise, he enjoy writing and speaking after serving three congregations and as President of the World Union for Progressive Judaism.
He is currently serving as Rabbi of Bat Yam Temple of the Islands, Sanibel, Florida.
View all posts by slfuchs
Finding Ourselves In The Bible 
Amén!
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May it be not too terribly long before our prayers are answered, Eternal one.
I would add Rabbi,
Give us the emotional strength, the patience, Eternal one, and the fortitude, to wait courageously until that day arrives. May it be so.
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Thank you, Lynne, for reading Nd sharing your thoughts!
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Take us back Eternal one
When we looked out for our neighbour and beyond
Take us back Eternal One
When we worshipped you with full and loving hearts
Take us forward Eternal One
When we’ve regained what we lost
Forward bearing a new earned and learned way of being
That has little be for You and our fellow man at its centre
Thank you Rabbi – all best to you and family
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Error
The 2nd last last line should have read… that has Love for You and our fellow man at its Centre
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Thank you, Susan!
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