Monday, October 2, 2017

Yom Kippur 2017: Reflections and Touchdowns



September 25

my father died a year ago today
we were on our way to Colorado
to tell Micah about my diagnosis

he was a great man
the last time I saw him
I was visiting at Highgate
he was so happy to see me
he gave me such a big smile
I almost cried
the Mets won 17-1
on the day he died

I want to tell a story about him
when Stan was starting to date Pearl
he called her and she wasn't home
my aunt rose, my mother's younger sister
wouldn't take a message
'cause girls don't call boys

somehow they still got together
they met on the beach in Florida
Stan's pickup line was
to ask Pearl for a cigarette

September 27

I used to write
a reflection for the year
I have a lot to reflect on
it was the first anniversary
of my dad's death
looking at the yahrzeit candles
side by side set the tears rolling
mom and dad reunited

a lot has changed in the past year
I had my best night's sleep
in a long time after Kol Nidre services
I really enjoyed seeing everyone
the music, the rabbi's message
I shed a lot of tears
at the sight of friends
I hadn't seen in a while
I reflected about my life and death

September 28

the Big Horns won
their game this week 55-54
it was a barn burner
it went down to the final play
the Park City quarterback
tripped over his own player
and we sacked him
he tried to get up
and run another play
but the clock had expired
it was another one for the record books
Howie had three touchdowns
in the first half

October 2

I get closer to the end every day
we all do
I do not have the exclusive
on pain and discomfort
but I do have the right to complain
I can't eat anymore
brushing my teeth
has become torture
three times a day
my mouth muscles
no longer work
but I can still watch my son
catch miraculous touchdown passes
the meaning of life
is a mystery






See this newsreel for Howie Robin in action. . .

http://www.montanasports.com/2017/09/30/lone-peak-pulls-out-a-thriller-against-park-city/















3 comments:

  1. Mark, your dad was so kind to me, a total stranger in this new family. Every time I saw him he gave me a huge smile and a big kiss. It always touched me because he was otherwise so shy, as was I. Looking at that photo of your mom on your wedding day, I can't get over how absolutely beautiful she was. Your courage and positivity as you continue to live each day, and not just survive, amaze me. I wish you good days and much love. Karen

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  2. Such beautiful prose coming from your soul shine, Mark. And so many life events to celebrate. I think about you and Jackie every day. Sending love and hugs...the funny lady

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