Spirit that flows through us, that layers the blue sky above us, embraces the birds and drifts down through majestic copper beech trees and spindly old oaks alike, Hear our Prayer.

We are all part of something larger; help us to be aware.

May we notice a neighbor challenged climbing their icy front steps, or a family dealing with food insecurity.

May we pay attention to those suffering from discrimination and hatred, and to the many, many people that increasingly have to live with what could have been called fear a month ago, and now has become abject terror.

Help us to not look away. Help us to ask one another: What are you going through? How can I help?

Spirit, as we pay attention, as we reach out, help us also care for ourselves so that we keep our own balance.

May we not only see and respond to those who are suffering, may we not only take the strong action that these times desperately call for, but may we help keep our footing, in part by noticing the wonder that surrounds us. May we hold our own balance in this way.

For me, it helps when I turn and notice the small, often elusive, haiku like moments that we live with but that I certainly often don’t notice: not just in the sky, the birds and the trees that provide comfort to so many of us, but all around us. Right Here, Right Now, in our arched wooden pews. In our intricately carved pulpit, our octagonal-shaped ceiling, and even in the simple but beautifully designed wooden racks that rest in front of us and hold our hymnals.

Bless us with noticing, with calm, and with action. Bless us with energy to improve things, with curiosity to listen, with gratitude for all that we have, and with peace.

May it be so. Amen.

— Tom B.