Who do we fear?
Why do we hate?
Where are we afraid to go?
When do we react without love?
What makes us act out rather than care?
Our lives and the lives of others can be stressful
Raising families
Nurturing a marriage
Working with difficult people
Illness, unemployment, mental health, isolation, bullying …
Who do we insult?
Why do we verbally abuse?
Where in our lives do we lack empathy?
When do we blame others?
What do we withhold from showing?
Our children are the future
We pray for our schools that they model restorative practices
We pray for families that they may have access to support when they need it.
We pray for economic justice so that all people feel valued.
Who do we want to be?
Why do we care?
Where in our lives do we show respect?
When do we act proactively?
What is the point of victory if the world that remains is desolate?
Our world is full of creative action
Consumer boycotts, labour strikes, silent vigils.
Non-violent action unites us together as a people while violent action results in destroyed relationships
Non-violent action unites women, ethnicities, religions and ages while violent action is aimed at destroying one or more of these attributes
We give thanks for the examples of
Rosa Parks
Vincent Lingiari
Yoko Ono
Mahatma Ghandi
Dietrich Bonhoffer
Malala
We give thanks for their parents and their communities that shaped them.
We give thanks for the who, why, where, when and what that makes us love rather than hate.
Amen
