This article called, "My Friend Rabbi Maximo" by Howard Kutler
appeared in The Jewish Press on December 8, 2023.
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Rabbi Maximo is my neighbor and he proudly showed it to me.
It began on the front page and continued for half of an inside page.
Very nice!
Click here to see Kutler's article online The Jewish Press, 12-8-23
I replied to the editor, Annette van de Kamp-Wright about it
and she published my letter and poem on Dec. 29, 2023.
Rabbi Maximo was so pleased!
I had given this poem to him and his wife, Jeanne, about 3 years ago
and he urged me to get it published.
I'm glad we found a good space to share it.
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Awakening
By Janet Sobczyk
This Catholic stayed in small Christian groups
values and traditions seldom challenged
comfortable sharing faith
while agreeing with one another.
A summer move changed perspective
brought into view a synagogue, new neighbors
an elderly Rabbi, his kind wife with small dog
quietly living their faith.
Friendly waves
conversations by the mailbox
Rabbi's warmth, gentle advice, hearty hello's
led to learning about their faith.
One cold morning garbage truck roared by me
coat over pj's, dragging cans too late
"Bring 'em over here, truck circles back for our side,"
offered Rabbi. I smiled.
Another day on drive home
my husband saw Rabbi walking alone
when offered a ride, politely declined
"No, thank you, it's the Sabbath."
My own awkward gesture
a plate of plain, round cookies in December
wife's delighted response: "Christmas cookies!
I haven't had these in ages."
Her reaction settled insecurities
sparked curiosity and conversation
misconceptions gently nudged into
understanding.
Next December Rabbi came
with store-bought Santa cookies
explained kosher foods
answered many questions with good humor.
In the spring their basement flooded
not by seasonal rains, by an unseen hand
outside faucet turned on in the night
"We've been targeted before," Rabbi sighed.
Random mischief or persecution?
Only God knows
I ponder the meaning of discrimination
and search my own soul.
Dedicated to Maximo and Jeanne (blessed memory), who've taught me so much.
Click here to see the letter and poem online The Jewish Press, 12-29-23
