Kaddish for Death and Childbirth

Kaddish for Death and Childbirth

Her breath rose and fell

spaces between in and out growing wider

Gasping for air, heartbeat shallow and fast

feeble voice barely heard

pink skin turning purple

finally, breath stopped, heart raced a few seconds, concluded its beating.

The doors of body closed.

There is no return.

May the rising sun sanctify and bless Your name

We sing praises to the Holy One

            for the life of one we loved so long

Gasping for air, crying on an inhale

learning the in and out rhythm of breath

The fast heartbeat that slows with growth

purple skin turning pink

lungs growing a louder voice.

The gate of womb shut.

There is no return.

May the falling rain sanctify and bless Your name.

            We sing praises to the Holy One

            for the new life we have been blessed with.

May the Lord of doors and gates

Going out and coming in

acorn and oak

child and old woman

bless our hearts with unceasing wonder

as we witness the commonness of mystery and holiness.

May Your name be praised into all eternity.

© photo and poem by caf