TO KINDLE A FLAME

I wrote this several years ago. Edited and it seems like a good time to repost. 

We Kindle This Flame

We kindle this flame in honor of the Creator of Creation. We are grateful for the plenty that blesses us. In a world where many walk hand in hand with hunger we have abundance. In a world where too many walk in fear we can speak as our hearts lead us and show our faith freely. In a world where too many are alone, even in a crowd, we are rich in family and friends.

We kindle this flame in honor of the earth and the star that warms it. With gratitude for the changing seasons, for the coolness of rain, for the shifting mists and warmth of sun. We ask for healing for our battered world. May we learn to use only what we need and to respect what we use. We have to remember to have gratitude for the plants, animals, air and waters that sustain us. Their infinite variety is wondrous.

We kindle this flame in honor of all who share this little world with us. To show gratitude for our fellow travelers,  for birdsong, the glory of infinite colors of flowers and trees, for the seas, the rivers, the rolling hills and the soaring peaks.

We kindle this flame to honor the infinite variety of our brothers and sisters. We ask for healing for those who lash out in fear. We ask for healing for those who lash out in anger. We ask for healing for those who lash out in ignorance. We ask for healing for those who are ill in body or spirit. We ask for healing for their caregivers, family and friends. Help us to remember and honor the many streams that enter the river of faith that sustains us. Help us to remember that this river has many wells to refresh our thirsty spirits.

We kindle this flame in honor of our family and friends. In gratitude for their love and support and we ask for healing for any sickness or injury.  May they find the love and support to live their lives as they were meant to.  May we find the faith to return the love and support that has been so freely given to us.