Love Like Jacob – A poem for Parsha Vayetzei (Aliyah 3)

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So Jacob worked for Rachel seven years, but they appeared to him like a few days because of his love for her.

I first knew about love when I was
thirteen years old, in junior high school
which was kind to me in no other way.

I don’t want to deceive you
It’s not that I had love, I just knew
I wanted it.

Most of my first interactions with others
began with could I love this individual
My behavior informed by the answer.

So in 2002 when I found a two-way yes
in the wilds of Oconomowoc, Wisconsin
I was ready to do the work.

And those six months of labor
before we occupied the same time zone
could easily have been seven years.

Along the way, questions were asked
answers were given, rooms were filled
with sunflowers and strawberries

and, eventually, the Rachel to my Jacob
took up space in our permanent residence.
Had I lifted the veil and discovered

a deception had been made, like Jacob,
I would have done it all over again.
There is no amount of years

I wouldn’t labor to set up in this tent
to be with her – No field I wouldn’t till
No sheep I wouldn’t…whatever it is

they do with sheep. Forever is a word
that needs no context. I am the wrestler
she has me pinned.

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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