This Sanctuary is My Friend

I first read a version of this poem at Har HaShem two years ago.
Now, as we enter the month of Tammuz—a time when we hold both light and dark,
the positive and the painful, within ourselves and the world—I offer this reflection.

It’s born from moments I’ve experienced in our Sanctuary,
a space that holds my prayers and helps me return to the light.

This Sanctuary is my friend

Always listening to my prayers.
Tears come as I pray.

The stone walls lean in,
wanting to hear, enveloping us—
like Jerusalem.

Leave your prayers here.

Streams of light come
with inspiration,
bringing their blessings.

The wood beams reach out—
We see you, they say.
Do not forget where you are.

The Ark doors protect what’s inside.

In my mind, kneeling,
waiting, waiting
for the doors to open,
for the curtains to reveal
what’s inside.

The Rabbi brings forth the scrolls.
The walls rejoice, as do we.
We touch, we bow—
uplifted.

The Torah is in me.
It leads me.
It is me.

This is Joy.

This Sanctuary is my friend.

© Todd Greenberg – 06/29/25