The mikveh

[joel]

The mikveh’d be a welcome well today,
a welcome washing from the gentile world—
the world of men like me and sisters that
I have. No watch, no ring, no shoes, no clothes,
no bandages: alone in skin and wet
with heaven’s amniotic fluid and
its purity— where all the grip of hands
is lost and all that’s held is faith that stands
within the water on its own, a grand
example of simplicity. And yet
I wonder if there’s anywhere for those
like me who breathe the spirit of the gnat-
filled skies and long for waters cool and swirled—
what sea’s for me to wave my world away?

[.Lucy.]

Joel, you are an amazing force. Your words build foundations, upon which your readers grow, expand their thoughts...

[dadio]

Take my hat off to you, Joel, splendid poetry craft.


And yet
I wonder if there’s anywhere for those
like me who breathe the spirit of the gnat-
filled skies and long for waters cool and swirled—
what sea’s for me to wave my world away?
( excellent words.)

[jim turner]

You are a learned poet and a good teacher. Might be a beloved rabbi, for all I know. jim

[Sue Littleton]

Joel, Joel, the strength and beauty of your poetry increases by leaps and bounds. The time is coming for that book. Sue

[judih]

agree
totally
book situation is becoming inevitable