Making Poems into Prayers

Thirst

Another morning and I wake with thirst
for the [wholeness] I do not have. I walk
[to work] and all the way God has
given us such beautiful lessons. O Lord,
I was never a quick scholar but sulked
and hunched over my books past
the hour and bell; grant [us], in your
mercy, a little more time. Love for [R.]
and love for you are having such a
long conversation in my heart. Who
knows what will finally happen or
where I will be sent, yet already I have
given a great many things away, expect-
ing to be told to pack nothing, except the
prayers which with this thirst, I am
slowly learning.

-Mary Oliver, adapted as a prayer for my life by me, slowly learning - perfect for a slug.

Sara B. sent me a letter once from some ICRC training she was at in some far off place with people from all over the world and in that letter was her version of the "Lord, it is night..." I've also received in the mail her version of the traveler's psalm. A little seed was planted in me. I look back now and would call what she was doing Freedom. And I'm adopting this practice for myself as I see fit. Even writing a version of the Lord's Prayer for my own personal use.

I've memorized 3 prayers on purpose and Mary Oliver's Thirst prayer/poem is one of them. That way no matter where I am they are with me. I've adapted it for others too as a parting blessing and I've changed the words for myself depending on the days or seasons.

Thinking of you today, R. Praying for your courage + surrender, clarity + strength, for your peace. With gratitude for your life and as much spacious, permeable boundaried Love as I can muster.