Readers Write: Looking back

The Island Now

In Passing

How did we come to be here, pressed into
A fragile, imperfect union—how do we
Meet the future pushing past as on a city street
Or subway during rush hour? Bound to a rhythm,
And sworn upon a language and score that becomes
More dangerous—years and years increasing the gaps.
How does a child who asks for directions to the
Edge of the world, somewhere, close the distance
We had to overcome? For example, when young
I was taught nothing heals the wounded soul like benevolence.
Of course we travel far, but just as I choose to greet
This way, how do you explain leaving it out?
Then, maybe, we have two lives but only one is valid.
And looking back, thank God I remember and believe.

Stephen Cipot
Garden City Park
Wishing everyone: Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, Diwali,
And the very best holiday season 2020-21

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