When the synagogue told me
we’d be going to the duck pond to
cast away our sins
I thought, that’s not fair to the ducks.
When the synagogue told me
we’d be going anywhere to
cast away our sins, I wondered
does U-Haul have a van big enough
to transport all of mine.
Probably not. I need an acre
of bread crumbs just to cover
what I did in the spring.
I need ancient Jewish lawyers
to negotiate my forgiveness.
I need to go to the duck pond.
I want to wade in the water and
eat what you toss in. But only
because I think it will be easier.
They should set up a permanent
residence for me – right next to the ducks.
I’ll learn to speak their language.
I’ll learn what it’s like to be responsible
for consuming the sins of others.
My only sin will be
running away from all my sins.
I’m casting everything I have into
the water. I don’t want it.
I wish I never had it.
Please make it like it was
before I knew anything.
I’m willing to learn it all again.
Even Algebra. I’m sorry for everything
I’ve ever said about Algebra.
Oh God, my God – I hope
the way I strung these words together
lands gently in Your ears.
Your
all forgiving
ears.