This Yom Kippur

This Yom Kippur

I forgive

Those that showed me the ugly side of 

Religion.

That took what was most dear to me and 

Flushed it down the toilet.

Who stole, injured, raped, murdered

With actions but also with words.

That constantly asked, demanded, asked, demanded, and asked again without shame.

And when you didn’t give were made to feel

Irrelevant.

Who engaged in false flattery, while 

Thinking first and foremost of themselves,

I forgive. 

And I start anew.

Hoping somehow that this year will be Different.

That I will not be asked for anything that

I cannot afford.

That I will be only with those who love me 

For who I am.

With people that are real, like children.

I forgive and I pray

To be forgiven.