Jacob

How powerless I feel here by the road,
As wagons, heavy laden, rumble off.
I too must bear a bitter, heavy load–
You smile at my expense, you almost scoff.
Look close at what my cleverness has brought me:
My brilliant plans all shattered into rubble.
Give ear to what my stormy life has taught me:
Wealth’s pleasures are as durable as a bubble.
I’ve wrestled with my anger, greed and pride;
Old rivalries I’ve striven to subdue;
I’ve wrestled with the loneliness inside.
I’m worn out. Must I wrestle now with you?

Andrea Abraham

 

Etching "Jacob wrestling with the angel" by Gustave Doré, 1855