Pantoum for Rabbi Shohama by R. Rachel Barenblat

Pantoum for Rabbi Shohama,
beginning the new chapter of retirement

Angels surrounding,
everywhere we go.
You taught us to see them.
You bring light to every room.

Everywhere we go
guides point the way.
You bring light to every room
rhinestone wings sparkling.

Guides pointed our way
to learn how you tie your shoes
(rhinestone wings sparkling),
how you walk in the world.

To learn how you tie your shoes
how to transmit blessing
how you walk in the world –
this is our holy curriculum.

How to transmit blessing:
a task for God’s messengers.
This is our holy curriculum,
following in your footsteps.

A task for God’s messengers:
you taught us to be them,
following in your footsteps,
angels surrounding.

Rabbi Rachel Barenblat
24 November 2019 / 26 Cheshvan 5780