If you were with me now
watching me light the candles,
I’d give you a candle to hold
and close your hand in mine,
steering your arm
towards the candlestick,
making it safe.
And you would laugh,
arching your back,
showing your teeth in delight,
and thinking this was
a birthday party for you.
‘Shabbat Candles’ published: Jewish Renaissance 2003
