Gifts
Yakov Azriel

"O give thanks to the Lord, for He is good, for his unconditional love endures forever."


(Psalm 136:1)


Your love, Your unconditional love, Lord,
Reflected in the shining of Your face
And in its light; Your freely given grace
Which overflows the cup that You have poured
For us to drink; the undeserved reward
Which You bestow on us; Your warm embrace
Uplifting us from every lowly place
In which we hid, from caverns we explored —

All these You've given us, O Lord. No word
In human speech is able to express
The vastness of Your mercy's sea, or how
You navigate our ships. Still, the Faith-bird
Possesses songs revealing ways to bless
Your name aboard our boats, both aft and bow.

Yakov Azriel is an English language poet who lives in Israel

Advice from a Tree

 

By Ilan Shamir

Dear Friend,
Stand Tall and Proud
Sink your roots deeply into the Earth
Reflect the light of a greater source
Think long term
Go out on a limb
Remember your place among all living beings
Embrace with joy the changing seasons
For each yields its own abundance
The Energy and Birth of Spring
The Growth and Contentment of Summer
The Wisdom to let go of leaves in the Fall
The Rest and Quiet Renewal of Winter
Feel the wind and the sun
And delight in their presence
Look up at the moon that shines down upon you
And the mystery of the stars at night.
Seek nourishment from the good things in life
Simple pleasures
Earth, fresh air, light
Be content with your natural beauty
Drink plenty of water
Let your limbs sway and dance in the breezes
Be flexible
Remember your roots
Enjoy the view!