Above All Things Desirable Poem by Charles Chaim Wax

Above All Things Desirable

Rating: 4.9


A little man in his late seventies
trudged along
in front of the Hebrew Home For the Aged in Coney Island
grey skull, faded skin,
huge rounded hump on his back
forcing him to totter on in a stooped position.
“The Messiah is coming, ” he said,
“Are you waiting also?
I know it’s a long time we’re waiting.
But He will come. Otherwise,
what is the meaning of our Earthly existence? ”
In order to look at me he tilted his head
causing his lips and cheeks to tremble.
“There must be a purpose to life
other than death. No?
What do you say? Walk with me. Walk for the Messiah.
If I only stand my strange shape pains me.”
Just then Angie strolled over
and said, “ Irving Frankel, you’re looking good.”
Then appeared a great rush of words:
“We want too much. No?
Perhaps not to want happiness,
not to think of it, then He comes?
Perhaps my suffering—the Messiah’s gift?
Never do I rest. Later? After the end? Then?
“Irving Frankel, ” said Angie, her voice so sweet, so gentle,
his name like a benediction.
No words now, silence
staring at Angie. “You’re a handsome lad, ” she said
kissing him softly on the cheek.
Still silence, his face serene,
waiting
Angie kissing him again
this time
a smile.

COMMENTS OF THE POEM
kskdnj sajn 14 January 2006

Enjoyed this much. Happiness is simple, but not so simple to appreciate the smallest of gifts that happiness generously bestows among people. It seems that it truly takes a great amount of pain and growth to learn...and leaves you wondering why you never looked out of the corner of your eye before. Thanks for sharing Charles.

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Martin A. Ramos 14 January 2006

Excelent. Not only free verse but also a story. This flow so well, I wonder, how much rewriting do you do? Martin

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Hugh Cobb 14 January 2006

A lovely poem, Charles. Humanity is at the core of all your work and love is at the core of all humanity It is the connecting tissue of our lives. A beautiful poem. Heartfelt. Hugh

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***** ********* 14 January 2006

I want one of those angels, but in male form! lol Great uplifting work Charles. 10 from Tai, fallen angel, with very dirty feet!

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