One of the more fascinating twists in the Megillah is the fact that Haman worked hard to erect a gallows on which he planned to hang Mordechai, only to find himself hanged from the very same rope.  He intended to use the rope to make himself famous and to assert his position of power over others. He wished to kill.  Instead the rope was used to kill him.  Two ends of the same rope.

Two ends of the same rope.

Rope.

In my closet.

Bundled in a knot.

Deciding on a life purpose.

Rope.

Keeps the flag waving.

The schoolyard toy of choice.

Lifts a piano to the concert stage.

Rope.

Holds me back.

Tie up and restrict.

Knotted on a lock of a prized possession.

Rope.

Keeps my pants up.

Catches fish for a meal.

Secures garden sprouts to a stick.

Rope.

Webbed across a path.

Blocking access to a destination.

Harsh and rough on my skin as I hold tight.

Rope.

Holds a parachute.

Swings in a hammock.

Fresh laundry dancing in the breeze.

Rope.

Trip and fall.

Hanging from a light.

Breaks a neck in one quick move.

Rope.

Laces shoes.

Holds the sail upright.

Bundles sticks for a warm fire.

Rope.

Can kill in an instant.

Hanging from the gallows in a noose.

Can save in an instant.

Tourniquet to prevent blood from flowing loose.

Rope.

Enough rope to hang oneself with, enough rope to save a life.

Two ends of the same rope.

Malkie Schick, LCSW is the Director of Behavioral Health at Ezras Choilim Health Center Monroe, NY and can be reached at mschick@echckj.org .