remember we are one: “… We rise from one ocean …” ~ Anwar Fazal
Remember We Are One …
We all drink from one water
We all breathe from one air
We rise from one ocean
And we live under one sky
Remember
We are one
The newborn baby cries the same
The laughter of children is universal
Everyone’s blood is red
And our hearts beat the same song
Remember
We are one
We are all brothers and sisters
Only one family, only one earth
Together we live
And together we die
Remember
We are one
Peace be on you
Brothers and Sisters
Peace be on you
~ Anwar Fazal (Recipient, Right Livelihood Award, Malaysia)
Why Remember we are one?
Well, it is a good reminder at any time … but is especially worthwhile during this time of continued and increasing divisiveness. In general, we encourage cultivation of peace and unity …
And, potentially such a remembrance, if done repeatedly, can become a “practice” that …
” … requires us to be rooted in our common humanity rather than isolated in our separate identity or group. It asks us to recognize that one of the main things we share is our diversity, and that these differences—though real—need not threaten our own identity or truth. Coexistence requires us to see the interdependent nature of all communities and to learn respect for all voices, allowing (even encouraging) them to be heard. Yes, the message of some voices may feel dangerous to the larger community, but if we listen with respect and compassion, we can change the nature of our encounter from opposition to reconciliation. In accepting life’s natural diversity, we can find what we hold in common and build bridges that enable our mutual work to continue …”
Of course, Brother David Steindl-Rast reminds us of such building of bridges … and that we are one indeed … as we are all coming from “The One” … and are “… a rainbow of {The One’s} glory …” …
You, the one
From whom on different paths
All of us have come,
To whom on different paths
All of us are going,
Make strong in our hearts what unites us;
Build bridges across all that divides us;
United make us rejoice in our diversity,
At one in our witness to your peace,
A rainbow of your glory.
Amen.
~ Brother David Steindl-Rast
All italicized text above (both poems and the text re “practice”) is by Elias Amidon and Elizabeth Roberts … and is excerpted from their book on prayers: Prayers for a Thousand Years (they are the editors) … which is their third book on prayers: (the prior two being Earth Prayers and Life Prayers) …
We shared our 1st post on this book in June: Listen: An Invitation to Peace & Unity … via Prayers … and, as mentioned in that post, we hope to explore all three books – in depth – in due course …
So, … pause … scroll back to the top 🙂 … read … reflect … pause … read again … reflect deeper … and see what is revealed … 🙂
Let us honor our unity and our “family spirit” … by helping our fellow family members in Ukraine … in whatever way we can … so here are some options:
1) NPR: Want to support the people in Ukraine? Here’s how you can help
2) Washington Post: Here’s how Americans can donate to help people in Ukraine.
3) Go Fund Me: How to Help: Donate to Ukraine Relief Efforts.
4) USA Today: Want to support the people of Ukraine? These apps and websites can help you send money.
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We are all facing financial challenges but IF your situation allows you to donate and help then please do so …
THANK YOU!
Images: (edited and logo added): Featured and 1) Quiet beach in the sunrise by LifePics, 2) Aerial view reflection of sweet cloud on the wet sand beach by thaisign, 3) Beautiful rainbow upon trees and grassland with its reflection in the water, flying bird in the sky by elenaphotos21. All purchased from depositphotos or 123rtf. All are for use only on our website/social channels (these images are not permitted to be shared separate from this post).
