Today, I am delighted to welcome David from The Skeptic’s Kaddish blog and mastermind of the W3 poetry prompts as my September Treasuring Poetry guest.
What is your favourite style of poetry to read?
This is a tough question because I enjoy reading a wide range of poetry. However, I find myself most often moved by elegantly crafted free verse. When free verse is written in a way that feels truly poetic and draws me in, I’m deeply impressed. This isn’t always the case with free verse; anyone can break a series of words into lines, but not everyone can do so in a way that captivates.
What is your favourite poem in your favourite style to read?
These are fantastic questions, Robbie! Do most people actually have an answer for this one? It’s difficult to choose!
If I may, I’d like to share a poem I deeply enjoy, although I wouldn’t call it my absolute favorite. Honestly, I’m not sure I have a single favorite poem.
‘The Performers’
by Robert Hayden
Easily, almost matter-of-factly they step,
two minor Wallendas, with pail and squeegee along
the wintery ledge, hook their harness to the wall
and leaning back into a seven-story angle of space
begin washing the office windows. I
am up there too until straps break
and iron paper apple of iron I fall
through plate glass wind onto stalagmites below.
***
But I am safely at my desk again by the time
the hairline walkers, high-edge
balancers end their center-ring routine
and crawl inside. A rough day, I remark,
for such a risky business. Many thanks.
Thank you, sir, one of the men replies.
***
What I love most about this poem is how Hayden imagines himself as one of the window washers and then returns from his reverie in the second stanza. I find it incredibly relatable—both the relationship between the office worker and the cleaners, and the act of daydreaming. I also admire how Hayden captures the interaction between himself and the workers, imbuing them with both respect and dignity.
What is your favourite style of poetry to write? Why?
I’ve experimented with many different forms of poetry, but over the past few years, I’ve gravitated towards the sijo. Two reasons stand out:
First, I prefer writing shorter verses. I’m wary of longer poems because each additional word risks derailing my intent. Second, while the Korean sijo is technically a syllabic form, it also offers flexibility since the syllable count is ranged, not fixed.
What is your favourite of your own poems?
Oy vey!
My nine-year-old daughter often asks me what my favorite food or book is, and she gets frustrated when I tell her I like different things in different ways. That’s exactly how I feel about my own poems!
Given today’s political climate, I’ll share one that resonates with how I’ve been feeling recently. It’s a garland shadorma, a form created by Sylvia Cognac on WordPress. It consists of seven shadorma stanzas, with each of the first six stanzas borrowing one line from the final verse. Here it is:
Ancient homeland, or: Each hoary stone
it’s the flag, I know. that’s okay. I prefer to remain true to my identity despite the haters.
I know them. they’d prefer that I surrender my people’s claim to our ancient homeland to assuage their guilt.
our roots here predate all others… reject it if you will, but the truth speaks for itself through each hoary stone.
some fancy us colonizers, wish we’d leave… ‘see?’ they’d gloat, ‘their connection to this land was not authentic.’
our prayers for home never ceased. so, no. no- I won’t be another Jew who forsakes his forebears’ story.
our foes have convinced themselves that we can be scared away, but we’ve had just One Land in Jewish history.
it’s the flag- they’d prefer that I reject it; ‘see?’ they’d gloat, ‘another Jew who forsakes Jewish history.’
Tell us a bit about the posts you wrote after your father’s death. What inspired you to write them? What do they mean to you?
Looking back, as much as I dislike clichés, I realize I had no choice but to write those posts.
From the outset, I knew I would recite the Kaddish daily for my father after his unexpected death. No one else in my family was able or willing to take on that responsibility. Yet, after a few weeks, I began to feel that I was simply going through the motions. It felt empty, especially considering that I was performing a ritual in honor of a man who had no respect for rote religious practice.
It’s been over five years since I wrote the final post in that series, where I grappled with this very question. Everything I wrote back then remains true, but now I see that the act of writing those posts was also the beginning of my coming to terms with the truth about my faith. It marked the start of my acceptance that I don’t believe in a traditional concept of God, nor in the inherently enduring relevance of religious doctrine and ritual.
Although I finished the Kaddish series that year, I’ve never stopped contemplating its philosophical implications. They continue to challenge me daily. I once thought that returning to synagogue to recite the Kaddish would bring me closer to my religious community. Instead, it distanced me further because I didn’t simply perform the ritual—I transformed it into a journey of deep self-reflection.
This process ultimately led me to start writing poetry. Revisiting my love of creative writing—something I hadn’t engaged in since high school—reconnected me to my own critically thinking inner voice, a voice I hadn’t fully acknowledged before… And that’s the voice that now flows through my poetry.
My Kaddish Year
David has written a fascinating memoir in the form of 51 blog posts about his year of mourning following the passing of his father. This year is called Kaddish or The Mourner’s Kaddish in Judaism and involves saying a hymn of praises about God for your deceased parent. I know a bit about the Jewish faith because one of my good friends is Jewish. I have attended hair cutting ceremonies and bar mitsvahs as well as some other celebrations. I have not experienced anything to do with the passing of a family member so the Kaddish was new to me.
I am still busy reading David’s thought provoking posts about this period of his life but what I have read to date is very interesting. It has opened my eyes and understanding to a lot of Jewish traditions and religious rituals that I had no idea about and which I think are very worthwhile. The concept of worshipping for a whole year after the passing of a parent in the company of other community members who are experiencing exactly the same grief and anguish seems like a very helpful and supportive idea to me. My experience of death has been a lot of support for the griever up until the funeral and then very little. The griever is left along to manage as best he/she can at the worst time which is after the funeral is over and the permanency of the new circumstances sink in.
David’s post are not limited to the Kaddish, they expand into a lot of thought about life, death, religion, individuality in worship and believes and many other topics. It is worth reading and considering. Follow the link below to read the 51 post comprising David’s My Kaddish Year.
Picture caption: Author photograph of David Bogomolny
David Bogomolny was born in Jerusalem to parents who made Aliyah from the USSR in the mid-70’s. He grew up in America and returned to Israel as an adult. He works as a grant writer for the Jewish Agency for Israel. He and his wife and daughter live in Jerusalem.
He began writing the ‘Skeptic’s Kaddish for the Atheist’ in Jerusalem, Israel, 30 days after burying his father in South Brunswick, New Jersey, USA. His series was originally published on the Times of Israel blogs.
South African author and illustrator, Robbie Cheadle, has written and illustrated sixteen children’s books, illustrated a further three children’s books, and written and illustrated three poetry books. Her work has also appeared in poetry and short story anthologies.
Robbie also has two novels and a collection of short stories published under the name of Roberta Eaton Cheadle and has horror, paranormal, and fantasy short stories featured in several anthologies under this name.
You can find Robbie Cheadle’s artwork, fondant and cake artwork, and all her books on her website here: https://www.robbiecheadle.co.za/
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This segment of “Treasuring Poetry” is sponsored by WordCrafter Press and the Poetry Treasures series.
93 Comments on “Treasuring Poetry – Meet poet and blogger, David Bogomolny, the mastermind behind The Skeptics Kaddish blog and W3 prompts #poetrycommunity”
Thanks, Ivor! It’s nice to meet you (and now I’m following you too!)
The word <EM>”ben”</em> simply means <EM>”son of”</em> in Hebrew – that’s why I write it in lowercase. I know it’s confusing because <EM>”Ben”</em> is also a popular name in English… I’m sorry for the confusion!
Thank you for having this interview, Robbie. I’ve followed David’s blog for a while, and I have enjoyed his poetry. I’m impressed by his variety of poems, and how well he writes them.
I enjoyed reading this interview with David very much. Thank you Robbie and David. I also would not be able to pick a favorite poem (or book, food, etc.), but I enjoyed David’s choices. I think our older child said Kaddish for my mom. I had my own ritual during morning walks.
Two of my favorite people here… Robbie and David (ladies first). Sending hugs and smiles across the miles. AND feeling blessed to have the influence of tour talent (s) to encourage me to continue writing when I feel spent and to step up my game when I err on the path of mundane. xx
A profound and insightful dialogue, Robbie and David. Coming to terms with death is a crucial part of the human experience, as it allows us to confront our mortality and the inevitable loss of loved ones. I believe that engaging with poetry, whether in writing or in reading, can facilitate this process by providing a medium through which emotions can be expressed and explored. I find that the reflective nature of poetry encourages introspection, helping me to articulate grief and ultimately find solace and closure amidst the complexities of loss. This post was timely for me, today, as I am treasuring the last years with my 93-year-old mother.
Hi Rebecca, thank you for your lovely comment. I found David’s memoire of his Kaddish and journey through grief to be fascinating. I like the way grieving is undertaken communally in the Jewish faith.
It’s great to meet David and learn more about his poetry and his thoughts. Thanks, Robbie and good luck to David in all his projects (and life in general).
Wonderful share, thank you Robbie. I enjoyed learning more about David’s poetic preferences. I had the pleasure and great fortune of connecting with David early in my blog journey (five years ago) and my life continues to be enriched by his writing and friendship. ✨
Robbie, a fascinating and far-reaching interview with David. I enjoyed learning about both David, his blog and poetry. His favourite poem is great and I agree, the change in perspective here works brilliantly. I’ll definitely check out his blog and the WP community is terrific!
Hi Resa, I’m glad I could introduce you to David. I am also familiar with Judaism as I have friends and some family members who are Jewish. I am enjoying David’s posts and will get back to them. This week’s a bit crazy. It’s always lovely to see you.
Brilliant interview with David.
Always enjoy finding out more about my fellow writers on here.
Thank you 🙏🤗
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Hi Maggie, I am delighted you enjoyed learning more about David and his writing. Thank you for visiting.
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Hi Robbie
I enjoyed the interview very much!
Thank you for sharing.
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💝
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*HUG*
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Thank you for this fascinating conversation with David! I enjoyed reading it.
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Hi Liz, thank you, David is a wonderful poet and writer.
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You’re welcome, Robbie.
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Thanks for taking the time, Liz! ❤
~David
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You’re welcome, David!
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I enjoyed this interview with David very much!
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Hi Kymber, I’m pleased to know that. David is a wonderful poet and writer.
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Thanks so much Kymber; that means a lot to me ❤
~David
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Great interview and great poetry, Robbie!
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Thank you, Dave 💞
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Thanks so much, Dave!
Sincerely,
David
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A very informative interview with a WP blogger I’m not familiar with … but now I shall follow him …
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Hi Ivor, David is a great poet. I’m so glad I could introduce you to him.
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I knew him as Ben Alexander but wasn’t following him, but now I am 😊🌏📘
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Thanks, Ivor! It’s nice to meet you (and now I’m following you too!)
The word <EM>”ben”</em> simply means <EM>”son of”</em> in Hebrew – that’s why I write it in lowercase. I know it’s confusing because <EM>”Ben”</em> is also a popular name in English… I’m sorry for the confusion!
Much love,
David
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I’m easily confused David 😊🌏
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🤭 you and me both!
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Thank you for having this interview, Robbie. I’ve followed David’s blog for a while, and I have enjoyed his poetry. I’m impressed by his variety of poems, and how well he writes them.
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Hi Dave, me too. I think David is a landmark in our poetry community 💓
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*HUG*
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Fantastic interview! It is hard to choose with poetry but I like your choice.
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💛🌻
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Thanks so much, Denise; that’s very kind of you ❤
~David
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[…] Treasuring Poetry – Meet poet and blogger, David Bogomolny, the mastermind behind The Skeptics… […]
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I enjoyed reading this interview with David very much. Thank you Robbie and David. I also would not be able to pick a favorite poem (or book, food, etc.), but I enjoyed David’s choices. I think our older child said Kaddish for my mom. I had my own ritual during morning walks.
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Hi Merril, that is lovely to know. I think the Jewish Kaddish retail is lovely, so supportive and communal. I’m so glad you enjoyed this discussion 😀
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Hi Robbie, I did! 😊
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*HUG*
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Thanks for the introduction, Robbie. Shared both posts on Twitter.
Best wishes, Pete.
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Thank you, Pete 😊⭐️
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Thanks so much, Pete ~ that’s very kind of you! ❤
Much love,
David
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Two of my favorite people here… Robbie and David (ladies first). Sending hugs and smiles across the miles. AND feeling blessed to have the influence of tour talent (s) to encourage me to continue writing when I feel spent and to step up my game when I err on the path of mundane. xx
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Hi Annette, thank you. Your posts always make me happy and uplifted.
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*HUG*
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Thank you Robbie and David for this interview. It deepens the connections that you both make through your writing and blogs.
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You are so right, Deanna. Thank you, thank you! ❤
~David
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Hi Deanna, it’s lovely to see you. David is a great leader in our poetry community.
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A profound and insightful dialogue, Robbie and David. Coming to terms with death is a crucial part of the human experience, as it allows us to confront our mortality and the inevitable loss of loved ones. I believe that engaging with poetry, whether in writing or in reading, can facilitate this process by providing a medium through which emotions can be expressed and explored. I find that the reflective nature of poetry encourages introspection, helping me to articulate grief and ultimately find solace and closure amidst the complexities of loss. This post was timely for me, today, as I am treasuring the last years with my 93-year-old mother.
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Rebecca, thank you for your personal response… I’m happy for you that you can treasure those final years – that is truly a blessing.
Much love,
David
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Hi Rebecca, thank you for your lovely comment. I found David’s memoire of his Kaddish and journey through grief to be fascinating. I like the way grieving is undertaken communally in the Jewish faith.
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It was a very interesting interview with a profound and meaningful dialogue.
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Thomas – thank you very much; I appreciate it!
~David
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Thank you, Thomas. I’m pleased you enjoyed this.
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You guys are all amazing poets. Wonderful interview. Muchg Love!!
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Brenda – you are very kind; thank you so much ❤
Sincerely,
David
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Thanks, Brenda 💜🪻
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Splendid interview 👏 I loved reading it. 🩷 Without David, I’m not sure I’d be writing poetry. He is my mentor.
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Hi Lesley, that is wonderful to know 💗
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*HUG*
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☺️
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Another excellent interview Robbie. You and David make a very strong connection here. (K)
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Thank you, Kerfe. David is an important part of our WP poetry community.
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Thank you, Kerfe. David and I share a lot of similar ideas and thoughts.
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*HUG*
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I love David and his writing, he is brilliant. Robbie your interview is awesome. David, you did amazing!
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Thank you, Nicole. I’m delighted you enjoyed this interview.
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*HUG*
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It’s great to meet David and learn more about his poetry and his thoughts. Thanks, Robbie and good luck to David in all his projects (and life in general).
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Hi Olga, thank you. I’m delighted you enjoyed this interview.
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Thanks, Olga – I really appreciate your kind wishes!
~David
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[…] https://writingtoberead.com/2024/09/18/treasuring-poetry-meet-poet-and-blogger-david-bogomolny-the-m… […]
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Fascinating interview with David, Robbie. His poem so resonated with me. ❤
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Hi Debby, I’m pleased you read this post. David’s posts about saying the Kaddish for his father and dealing with grief might be interesting to you 🙏🩵
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HI Robbie. Yes, I am well versed in Kaddish. Thank you for introducing us to David and his blog. ❤
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💗🌼
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Thanks, Debby ❤
~David
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My pleasure ❤
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Wonderful interview with David, Robbie! ♥️
I really enjoyed learning more about David and his writing!
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Thank you, Bianca. I’m delighted you enjoyed this interview.
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It’s my pleasure, Robbie! ♥️🌹
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Thanks so much, Bianca ❤
~David
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Wonderful share, thank you Robbie. I enjoyed learning more about David’s poetic preferences. I had the pleasure and great fortune of connecting with David early in my blog journey (five years ago) and my life continues to be enriched by his writing and friendship. ✨
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Hi Michele, I am delighted to know that 💛⭐️
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Excellent! Thank you, Robbie. 😊
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You’re so sweet, Michele. Thank you ❤
~David
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You’re very welcome, David and thank you. ❤
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Robbie, a fascinating and far-reaching interview with David. I enjoyed learning about both David, his blog and poetry. His favourite poem is great and I agree, the change in perspective here works brilliantly. I’ll definitely check out his blog and the WP community is terrific!
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Hi Annika, I am delighted to know you enjoyed this interview. David is a wonderful attribute to our WP community.
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Thank you, Annika ❤
~David
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This is such a great post! I’m happy to learn more about David and his thoughts.
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Hi Dawn, I am delighted you enjoyed this interview.
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Thank you kindly, Dawn ❤
~David
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A fascinating post, Robbie.
David’s love and devotion to his father is a wonderful thing.
As my N is Jewish on his father’s side, I am familiar with many of the traditions.
I enjoyed David’s poetry selections, and what he had to say.
Thank you to David, to you and to Kaye Lynne for hosting!
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🥰
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🤗
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Hi Resa, I’m glad I could introduce you to David. I am also familiar with Judaism as I have friends and some family members who are Jewish. I am enjoying David’s posts and will get back to them. This week’s a bit crazy. It’s always lovely to see you.
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Thanks so much, Resa
~David
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[…] You can catch David’s interview with Robbie Cheadle on “Treasuring Poetry” here: https://writingtoberead.com/2024/09/18/treasuring-poetry-meet-poet-and-blogger-david-bogomolny-the-m… […]
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