Gershon Wolf Poet Free verse

The Heart of the Stranger

                We know the heart of the stranger
                   for 190 years, slaves unto Pharaoh in Egypt
                      backbreaking labor, spirit-sapping, 24/7
                         Within us beat loud the heart of the stranger

                 We take him with us, for all time, to the farthest reaches of the globe
                     a sacred bond between us and the Almighty
                        As He protects the stranger, so do we
                            As He promotes him, so must we

                  For what does God ask of us other than
                      to emulate Him
                        to walk in His ways
                            to do justice 



                ___________________________________________________
                Based on Deuteronomy, Chapter 26, esp. v. 11,
                read in synagogues throughout the world Sat-
                urday morning, August 29, 2026. The poem also
                references other Biblical chapters as well as com-
                mentaries thereto. ~ gw

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Kim Rodrigues August 29, 2026 at 12:42 PM Yes, we must care for each other. We are more than a member of a family, we are also members of the human race. Hugs Gershon Wolf August 29, 2026 at 7:49 PM And we are even more than members of the human race. We are sparkling lights in the eyes and the mind of God. ~ Drug-free!

Sotto Poet August 29, 2026 at 5:21 AM Gershon, this poem beautifully captures the resilience and everlasting spirit that is tied to history. Its powerful imagery evokes human empathy and responsibility. Gershon Wolf August 29, 2026 at 7:49 PM I think you for the complimentary review, Sotto. Peace, gw

Bj Legros Kelley August 28, 2026 at 5:47 PM Oh my gosh, so beautiful Gershon, so very beautiful it reads like a Psalm. Well done! Another gem for my favorites list, and a truly shining gem!!! Gershon Wolf August 29, 2026 at 7:54 PM Thank you so much for the FAVE, Bj. Excelsior! ~ Gershon