Israel, stand up

I want to be with you. In your time of need, in your time of unrest. In no time at all.

I miss your smell. Stone and sand and spices and a slight burning.

I miss your sound. Engaging chatter and violins and a vibrant language.

I miss your people. Sometimes divided but forever alive.

I miss your style. Joyful and resolute and oh so honest.

But most of all, I miss your friendship.

I miss our conversations.

I miss the secrets you whispered in my ear.

Oh, Israel.

When I felt like crumbling, you were there to hold me up.

When I screamed and cried, you let it resonate in your walls.

When I laughed, you made it real. You let it live.

With you, I could be whatever I wanted to be.

And you made me want to be good. Just good.

You loved when when I didn't love you back.

Yea, you never turned your back on me.

Now they want to divide your holy city.

And I am ignoring your cries for help atop a throne across the sea.

Yea, I'm just going to say it.

I am ignoring your cries for help atop a throne across the sea.

Wondering if my prayers can reach you.

Jerusalem, in your time of need....I am helpless.

You loved me when I didn't love you back.

You never turned your back, no you never turned your back on me.

You were always the strong one.

And now I am digging my knees on American soil.

Asking you.

Begging.

Please stand up.