Phoenix: A People

Some think it is
undefinable
some strange element
so faint perhaps it really
is not there;
but yes, it is
evanescent at times
barely beating at others
but there
that distinguishing
(characteristic, is it?)
which binds a people
cements their past
to the present
illuminates their future
though the people be divergent
so far from its roots
acculturated
lacking commonality of vision
but for this strange link.
This
link which strangely
identifies and sets apart
willingly, unwillingly. Yet
it is too a joyous thing
and by its grace
we levitate we dance
we dry our ancient tears
and rise from the smouldering ruin
of history.

c. 1983 Rita Rosenfeld
published in Canadian Jewish Outlook, Vol.21, No.3