Sauci Bosner

Damascus Gate under construction

15 june 2011

Jerusalem

Dear Damascus Gate,

I have walked through you countless times.

I know your merchants selling sun ripened tomatoes,

kumquats and apricots on scorching summer aftenoons.

I know your colored lights announcing Ramadan’s arrival.

I know your carton boxes brimming with Nikes and plastic sandals.

I know your money changers, settling in for a days work

in tiny wooden shelters, their rubber tipped fingers  deftly counting

dollars, gulders and marks without skipping a heart beat.

I have tasted date and tamarind juices, poured effortlessly  from brass urns

wrapped with rags, camel belts and bells on the backs of your mustached men.

I have bought fresh mint and almonds from  jellabiyah clad women, sitting

crosslegged on your steps.

I love your stone pavements, polished throughout centuries of

pilgrims, merchants and tourists who have passed before me.

Shadow & Light Damascus Gate

I will always remember the shadows of your greatness.

Sincerely yours,

Sauci Bosner