A Spark of Sacrifice
F
riday, dusk. The sun is a crimson orb in the sky as I bentch my Shabbos licht and cover my eyes. My lips and heart are one as I retrieve my innermost thoughts that have lain suppressed throughout the week. And then I gaze at the flickering lights, as I’ve done for the past thirty-five years. But this time it is different. Tonight the flames leap and dance with a life of their own, willing me to soar higher and transcend my own nature—yet again. Time stands respectfully still; I am transfixed by the ethereal glow that radiates from these candles, by the wondrous twist of events that has redefined my entire focus.
STORY CENTER
I am fired with purpose, for I have seen how sealed doors are flung open wide for those who come to purify…
48 / The Center Spirit / September 2021
As an energetic, young-at-heart bubby, I always took my good health in stride. My schedule was crammed to the overflow with family and work commitments, simchos, and shiurim. My grandkids were constantly popping in for a visit (or for some babka). Life was hectic and happy. And then one day I went for my yearly mammogram.
As was often the case, I was told to do a sonogram for a better view. I thought nothing of it; this was all par for the course and so I dutifully squeezed some time in a week before Pesach to do this sonogram and be over with it. That night I had a most disturbing dream. My recently departed mother-in-law, with whom I’d been especially close, approached me and said,
