Were we friends?
he kept me at a distance
while honoring my path
that was his way
not just with me
with many of us
who loved him
for his passion
his spiritual intensity

Even his anger
drew us
and the way it came through
when he sang
his chants were powerful
some wild,
others sweet enough
to summon shabbos angels
all had raw energy
when he performed
with his deep voice
and unrythmic guitar

He loved the wild
hunted for eagle feathers
searched for ways to bring us
back to the hills, the land
a was a caring
husband, father
teacher, rabbi, friend
his death by drowning
seemed incongruous
can it be that God is jealous
of those he loves the most?

After twelve years
last night he came
the same Reb Aryeh
we sat together
shared a shabbos meal
Beth and the children
present at the table
he turned to me
with clear intent and said
is it not time for a memorial
performance of my songs
the melodies I brought down
from on high?

He left me with that thought
that task to ponder
shalom aleichem dear Reb Aryeh
peace be upon you
now and in the World to Come
your niggunim
your sacred chants live on
you are honored and remembered
well among our holy dead
and if I live to present
one more concert
in the Havurah
your songs will once again
take pride of place