Prayer--of Doubt; of Love

Running from the fears that pursue me

I pant as fear pours from my pores

Leaping, hurdling, skirting the edges . . .

Constantly moving in hope to evade those who wish me harm

Their words assault my senses, my confidence, my being

Am I who they say I am?

Am I a person of no worth?

Am I worthy of love?

I pause . . . resting . . . listening for their disparagement

All I hear around me is the sound of my own fear

I hear silence between my gasps for breath

Slowly, ever slowly the quiet grows

Glancing from place to place I fear the accusers

While quiet slowly wraps me in loving arms

Calming in the silence a quiet voice resonates

Its strength and love flows within me

I still myself and listen

You are my child . . . I created you for love, for good

Love as I love you . . . touch others in my love

Stand with the least . . . stand with the lost . . . stand with all

Embody my love . . . embody my grace . . . embody my heart

Peace filled my soul

Fear faded

I turned and faced the accusers . . .

And loved them