The Shabbat Candles

The Shabbat Candles

By Rachel Dynkin

I sit and watch the flames flicker before me

As I reminisce and daydream of the past

Of the first time that I lit Shabbat candles

I ponder the fact that time runs way too fast

As I reminisce and daydream of the past

I think of this Friday night some years ago

I was but a foolish girl of eleven

Back then there was so much I did not know

I think of this Friday night some years ago

And recall that I did not know that I could

Make wishes after saying “lehadlik ner”

Rise for a moment from a world of vice to good

And I recall that I did not know that I could

Come close to God and pour my heart out to Him

And plead forgiveness, health, strength and happiness.

Now my life is filled with prayers to the brim

I just came close to God and poured my heart out

And told him everything I want in my life

I stare into the fire, my childhood image fades.

As my heart whispers one last time God end strife!