PRAYER FOR THE RELIEF OF UNHELPFUL “MIND TALK”

Last fall I gave a talk in New Orleans to a group of women from the organization Theresians International. One of them recently emailed me this litany she subsequently wrote, based at least in part on my observation that some of the worst violence is the violence we do ourselves. 

I liked it so much that I asked permission to post it–thank you, Rosemary! 

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MIND TALK LITANY

Leader 1: We are pausing now to reflect on how violence may be a part of our lives. First we invite you to read the litany in silence. Second we will read the litany together.

Leader 2:      For the times I have compared myself to others:  

All:                Wonderful Creator, help me to accept myself just as I am.

Leader 1:      For the times I have tried to be perfect

All:                Gentle One, help me to accept my limitations.

Leader 2:      For the times I have tried to be all things to all people

All:                Mother of My Heart, help me be true to myself.

Leader 1:      For the times I have failed to say “No” When “yes” was too much for me

All:                Compassionate One, help me to honor my needs.

Leader 2:      For the times I thought others actions were a reflection on me.

All:                Gracious Spirit, help me release them to live their own lives.

Leader 1:      For the times I berated myself for not being in shape.

All:                God of Struggle, help me to care gently for myself.

Leader 2:      For the times I berated myself for not being more involved

All:                Liberator, help me to do everything with love.

Leader 1:      For the times I thought I was failing in spiritual progress

All:                Seeker of Silence, help me to trust in you.

Leader 2:      For the times I thought I was not holy enough

All:                Spirit Within, deepen my awareness of your presence.

Written by Rosemary Simek

Inspired by Heather King