14. The elders no longer sit in the city gates;the young men no longer dance and sing.
15. Joy has left our hearts;our dancing has turned to mourning.
16. The garlands have fallen from our heads.Weep for us because we have sinned.
17. Our hearts are sick and weary,and our eyes grow dim with tears.
18. For Jerusalem is empty and desolate,a place haunted by jackals.
19. But lord, you remain the same forever!Your throne continues from generation to generation.
20. Why do you continue to forget us?Why have you abandoned us for so long?
21. Restore us, O lord, and bring us back to you again!Give us back the joys we once had!
22. Or have you utterly rejected us?Are you angry with us still?