In Memoriam

PoppyandFlag

On this day for those who gave their ultimate,
May we honor their gift, respect their bravery,
And continue to uphold all that which they
Selflessly secured.

May we continue to keep safe the place to kneel in protest
For that which needs to be understood,
for that which needs mending.

May we continue to honor the water of our land and
Keep safe its flow of life and those who stand strong against
The tide of greed and destruction and hatred.

May we beat our weapons into plowshares so our
Children are safe wherever they may wander,
Hold dear to all life without profile of
Spirit, race, age, or endowment.

May we open our arms to those who reach to us
For compassion, aid, and make room for lives and families
Who are weary and seek rest, safety,
But also bear their own gifts to share
Being perfectly created as are we.

On this day may we champion and honor
Those we remember for their duty and sacrifice,
Through our benevolence and humility,
Through our gratitude and joy, through our tolerance,
And in our love, care, and compassion toward all beings,
Creatures, plants, and all matter and elements.

Amen. Amen. Amen.

 “Give me your tired, your poor,
Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free,
The wretched refuse of your teeming shore.
Send these, the homeless, tempest-tossed to me,
I lift my lamp beside the golden door!”