By Ishmael von Heidrick-Barnes
ONE HOUR FROM JERUSALEM
One hour from Jerusalem
there aren’t borderline personalities
speaking in Bible verses
outside airports
No religious right
to save the wronged from damnation
No television evangelists
to deliver widows from pension checks
No Christian jihadists
hiding behind white robes
One hour from Jerusalem
the road narrows:
Wine isn’t watered down by words
People drink undiluted spirits
because a fish would die of thirst
in the Dead Sea
and life in the desert isn’t possible
unless everyone shares
the same cup
Ishmael von Heidrick-Barnes was born and raised in San Diego, California. He attended Herbert Hoover High School and went on to study Religion and Theology at the University of San Diego. His book Intimate Geography, published by Ragged Sky Press, won the 2012 San Diego Book Award for Poetry. Ish, as he is known, has also written lyrics for German musicians Andrea Hörkens and Thomas Roderburg (Tender Art).
Latest posts by Ishmael von Heidrick-Barnes (see all)
- Word’s Out | Geo-Poetic Spaces - December 14, 2018
- Political Love Affair | Geo-Poetic Spaces - December 7, 2018
- Deer Tracks | Geo-Poetic Spaces - November 30, 2018
Watch and listen to Ish Barnes’ post, right now.
I find this poem extraordinary. Beyond all beliefs, religions, “lifestyles,” philosophies, opinions, … we all share one thing; We are human.