14 “All you neighboring cities, come and consider how the Eternal God has sent my children into exile.
15 He brought against them a nation from far away, a shameless nation that speaks a foreign language and has no respect for the elderly and no pity for children.
16 These people carried off my beloved sons and took away my daughters, and I was left a widow, completely alone.
17 “My children in exile, I can do nothing to help you.
18 Only the one who brought this punishment upon you can rescue you from your enemies.
19 Go your own way, my children; live your own life! I am all alone.
20 I have taken off the robes I wore during days of peace, and I have dressed myself like a person in mourning. I will cry out to the Eternal God for help as long as I live.