Shemini
When I am asked to “come close”
and I feel my own cringing
may my golden calf clearly appear
that I may dissolve the barriers
to approaching Your fire…
may my hesitations be made obvious
without defense so that my transgressions
are not projected elsewhere, but,
left for my care alone…
On the eighth day, I seek to be ready
to offer with passion and open heart,
no withholdings of shame and guilt…
Aaron’s reluctance and sons’ demise by impatience
teach of transference of error, remorse
and unfinished business,
release of that which is no longer needed…
when Moses encourages stepping in close
may I be ready,
not fearing retribution in other means
or creation of another calf…
may I be ready for Your flames, Your blessing,
that this mishkan is a dwelling place for You now…
on the eighth day, may I dwell completely
in Your care with You…
J. Felsen, Ph. D. 4/14/25