A Prayer for the Difficult Days
Courage doesn’t always roar. Sometimes courage is the quiet voice at the end of the day whispering, “I will try again tomorrow.” - Mary Ann Radmacher
When life feels foggy or gray, may I accept that energy can be hard to summon, motivation may be in short supply and completing even the most mundane of tasks is its own kind of victory.
On days when I don’t feel like accomplishing anything, may I find the will to do what needs to be done.
May I listen more than I talk, seeking first to understand before worrying about being understood.
May I acknowledge our differences, but continue to seek connection, remembering that we are all just trying to find our place in the world.
May I keep moving my body … to stay strong, to clear my head, to find my way.
May I go slow and look. To admire the flashes of red as the hummingbird flits by my face. To gaze up in wonder at the vultures diving and circling above my head. To notice the purple wildflowers on the dry brown California hills.
May I ask questions instead of assuming.
May I foster curiosity instead of judging.
May I choose to be kind, recognizing that I am not the only one who is struggling. That loss and disappointment exist for everyone, especially right now.
May I remind myself that much of what happens and most of what is said isn’t about me, and I shouldn’t take it personally. That a sharp word, impatient glance or sigh of frustration can be signs of worry, fear or hurt in the other person’s life.
May I stand my ground the way my son did and my daughter does. Uncowed by cruelty or criticism. Unfazed and unmoved by those who decide to walk away.
May I remain content where I am, realizing there is always more to accomplish and so much more left to learn.
May I acknowledge the good in the world. The beauty. The kindness. The way they each continue to shine, no matter what.
© Margo Fowkes, 2020. All rights reserved.