by Marsha Lee Berkman

Deeds of Love and Rage

In the fallout from the parents’ ruptured marriage, a mother and daughter preparing for Shabbat discover that their relationship too has been altered.

We are a troubled family. Ephraim left three months ago and Cecilia and I have had to confront each other like enemies who suddenly find themselves at the same party. Yesterday we quarreled and today, dressed in a pair of faded blue denim shorts and a yellow tee shirt that says “Foxy” in flowery iridescent letters, she moves through the house sulking. She is the only thing in motion on this hot sultry day.

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