[In the] spirit of love, harmony, and remembrance, we stand too often divided, too often set apart from one another in heedless ways. We seek to be compassionate but our vision may be clouded or distracted. We too often go forward, day by day, and look without seeing.
MAY WE REACH OUT IN HONESTY AND LOVE
May we work to heal the divisions which separate earth’s children, one from another. May we peer through the mists of deception which hide and deny violence, mists enclosing those who suffer. May we not allow the misuse of our fellow souls to hide in broad daylight.
MAY WE REACH OUT IN HONESTY AND LOVE
When we see the afflicted--however they may be afflicted--may we not shrink away. May we not blame suffering on the one who suffers. May we be courageous enough to perceive suffering and compassionate enough to attend to the voices of those who suffer.
MAY WE REACH OUT IN HONESTY AND LOVE
When we see prejudice, when we hear evil speaking, when we witness the rough hand or the scathing word laid upon the helpless or innocent, may we resolve to work toward unity and justice.
MAY WE REACH OUT IN HONESTY AND LOVE
May we not turn away from the wounded head of the abused. May we not accept the twisted reasoning by which the oppressor declares himself the victim.
MAY WE REACH OUT IN HONESTY AND LOVE
Let our gratitude for good fortune in our lives lead us not to complacency but to awareness, awareness of those whose lives are shadowed by abuse or neglect, May we not ignore signs of deceit or denial that hide brutality.
MAY WE REACH OUT IN HONESTY AND LOVE
In all things, may those who suffer ever be able to approach us: find a kindly ear and supporting hand. May we witness for love and justice at every level of relationship. May we nurture a keen eye and a strong and loving heart for any who fear the hurtful rod, the cutting voice, the uneven hand, the chain of oppression, great or small.
MAY WE REACH OUT IN HONESTY AND LOVE.
AMEN.