Seeing God?

Noble Sanctuary (Temple Mount), 9 December 2010

On the south side of the temple
As you come up from Bethlehem
There was once a gate – big, majestic
Named for Huldah – prophetess
Somewhere around this gate
May have lurked Simeon and Anna
Peering out at the faces of devotees
As they walked the uneven steps up
Towards the vast monolithic temple platform
Their intent on preparing for worship
Echoed in the outward oriented faces
Of the old ones awaiting salvation.

How did they make them out?
From the many other couples carrying babies -
no strollers in this city -
In the push and shove of narrow alleys
Where everyone's busy about their worship
How to slow down and enjoy a plastic stool
Where eye contact between women becomes possible
Tentative smiles exchanged
Moving to hand gestures from each side.
A mother and daughter's patient gentleness
This is how you recognize God.