Heart of Redemption - Poem

Judaism, Fall, 2000 by Robert Manaster

The death of one relation begins another

As Joseph weeps when his brothers insist

Their acts should be forgiven, said father.

The brothers weep and fall before a throne.

And Joseph knew, Fear not, for am I in the place of God?

Then hugs in joyful red, not in the bloom of home:

Not in recognition of their present likeness,

But of green beginnings: I have always loved you.

As if they breathe in apple ripeness

Of silence the fall weight of its core,

Unseal their lips for all that lives in God:

They love as brothers, taste what is before.

ROBERT MANASTER lives in Champaign, Illinois. His poetry is published or forthcoming in various publications including Image: A Journal of the Arts and Religion, Wisconsin Review, and Midstream.