To Raizie:

I wanted to publish your poem on my blog - not just in the comments. You have a talent for writing. It's good to see victim/survivors use creative outlets to process their abuse. Please consider sending me an e-mail. I would like to assist you but it's difficult through a blog. I am currently advocating for several other victim/survivors on a one-on-one basis by e-mail and phone. Your identity is safe with me - I am a victim/survivor too. If you want to contact me directly, send an e-mail to: chavah5760@socal.rr.com and I will try to help you.


A POEM BY RAIZIE:

Peering beneath the yarmulke; behind the bimah;
Ever prayerful, ever watching
Invoking the name of Adonai
He lifts his strained voice in praise
Droning on with a lifeless chant

One eye on the Lord
And one eye on the Prize
The Master Manipulator
Creates his aura of holiness;
His invisible cloak obscuring the Evil Urge

Making a show of charity,
He counsels the elderly; he comforts the bereaved;
He is a pious man; a man of the Lord
Now he too is praised for his great work
And none will question his sincerity

He woos with guitar and drum,
Prayer and poem,
Shabbos candle, wine, and kosher food
His chanting weaves a spell; a Covenant between Master and Master
A promise of Broken Tablets

There is a victim around every corner;
One who is willing to keep his secrets
One who, for some time, is quite “special”
The list grows until he must move on to greener pastures,
Having used up all the innocence and vulnerability he can find

Believing he has covered his tracks behind him
And that Hashem will continue to forgive and bless
Regardless of the sins not yet committed,
He moves with even greater stealth onto a new canvas,
Seducing the adult and leaving behind the child

Beware the Rabbi.