For Debbie Friedman

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Ten years after she left us
though one can make the case that
she is indelibly still with us

Addie and I sit down to play her music.
It’s less than a bar in to any song that
the water springs from the well.

Addie is on permanent standby
to vocally take over when I lose it.
And I will lose it.

When I think of all the music
that makes me weep, hers was the first.
She taught us the power of

what happens when we sow in tears.
She emboldened generations of singers
to make music that instantly lives in our bones.

She was funnier than you and me put together.
Her songs haunt us like the ghosts
you’ve always wanted to meet.

She stood for love and peace and humans.
She stood for eliminating lines
more than crossing them.

She always knew how beautiful
your soul was, even if you didn’t.
She taught us Torah when

we thought we were just
singing songs. Ten years without
Debbie Friedman.

It’s enough already.
I’m sure when the world yet to come
comes, she will be the one

the prophets have engaged to
write the songs that will usher us in.
She’s already written the songs

that will usher us in.
Ten year’s we’ve been reaping
in the joy of her memory.

Her blessed memory –
She made us feel like
we deserved it.

These poems are offered free for your enjoyment. If you use them as part of an event, meeting, educational or liturgical setting, please consider tipping the author.

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