You also know that after a protracted battle and many prayers, her amazing husband, R' Yisroel Jacobs, passed away not long ago at the age of 47.
"Filled with Grace" centers on their chasuna (wedding) portrait, which still holds a special place on the wall of the home they shared.
I've seen the portrait and it really is a very special image.
In addition to them being good-looking people on their wedding day, there is something indefinably beautiful emanating from their smiling faces.
It's easy to understand why the carers (the employees of the residence who assist the residents with their needs) also feel struck by the image they encounter as they come to carry out their daily tasks.
R' Yisroel was a valuable part of the frum community & a wonderful influence on everyone who encountered him, whether it was casual or via his work in the Lubavitcher mitzvah tank.
Such a special person is certainly a melitz yosher (an advocate) for us in Shamayim (Heaven).
Nechumelle's poems always touch my heart, but this poem in particular stands out for its expression of faithful gratitude in the face of profound loss and also one of pure & wholehearted love—the ideal in marriage.
To read previous posts about R' Yisroel & Nechumelle Jacobs, please see here:
Posts about Nechumelle Jacobs
FACED WITH GRACE
On the wall I face throughout the day
Our chasuna portrait is on display
On my husband’s face the Shechina does shine
We were in partnership with the Divine
Yes – we were both sitting in wheelchairs
But truly content – full of joy, not despair
Each time I lift my eyes and on it rest my glance
I am grateful I was zoicha to get the chance
That with my husband I could share these years
With this in mind I am not overcome with tears
The carers too by the picture are mesmerised
They look at it as though they are hypnotised
I am comforted as serenity the photo does impart
I feel at one with him, it really warms my heart
I am comforted, knowing he is a melitz yosher for me
It gives our relationship in essence its continuality
©Nechumelle Jacobs – 11 March, 2021