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What was the seder table when we only had Elijah’s cup? Incomplete.

We open the door for Elijah, Angry prophet of the world to come. And we ask God to pay attention To the fire from the sky that was Elijah’s gift. Regretted necessity. Elijah announces the Moshiach Who then saves the Jews! Elijah, the bringer of justice. When you open the door don’t just say the prayer Read the translation, It’s a little scary So invite that in. Bring down the anger, bring down the plagues Sometimes we need them, It’s part of the story. We were slaves in Egypt and it was horrible. But  If there is a child at the table Let her open the door for Uncle Elijah And hope that there’s some wind tonight And when it blows Tell her that’s Elijah as he comes inside Visiting each Jewish home on Pesach To have his cup of wine. And when the child sits back down Jiggle the table just a little And tell her to watch the wine shake in the cup So the kid thinks Elijah is there, taking a sip. The anger will wait. We lift Miriam’s cup, Dancing prophet celebrating the world that is now. And we tell God we are grateful For the water from the earth that was Miriam’s gift, Welcome necessity, On God’s behalf. Miriam announces joy! And teaches us to save ourselves. Miriam, the bringer of mercy, There’s no prayer for her in the haggadah-- So make one up! It’s a little scary But what the heck. Bring up the water, start the party Sometimes we need it And it’s part of the story: We were slaves in Egypt and now we are free. But If there is a child at the table Let him take a sip from Miriam’s cup, If all the talking makes him thirsty, And while he drinks Tell him about Miriam the artist Singing MiChamochah on the Red Sea Shore Making sure we have fun at the table. And when the child is finished Remember that Miriam was a truth teller And for that the prophet paid a heavy price Make sure the kid respects Miriam, and values her water.  The fun will wait. So together on the seder table Fire and Water, Justice and Mercy Tzedejk v’ Rachameem, The cup of wine to stir the flame The cup of water to quench it. Only with both cups are we complete. So for all this,  Baruch Atah Adonai, Brucha At Shechinah Elijah and Miriam We are blessed this Pesach night.

Amen.