Havdalah

We hold our breath at sundown

While souls skitter across the floor,

Nervous for a strike of the match.

In the defining dark

We place our bets on a glimpse of paradise,

Straining at the window towards the third star.

Sabbath wreathes our necks

With muscular fingers,

Holding back

Until the moment

Dreams flare, candles echo

Bridles loosen and fall away.

We watch each other for sparks.

Ears prick to the sound

Of souls galloping off.