Written by MJ Ryan, SheEO Development Guide

Graphic: Albany Public Library

We’re 10 days into 2022 and already the year is full of challenges. So I thought I would start off with a prayer for the new year. This one, adapted from Zen priest Joan Halifax, spoke to me and I hope it offers you support, inspiration, and determination to make a difference in all of what’s to come:

May we realize that this earth is sacred and live accordingly.
May the suffering arising from oppression, hatred, and fear be righted and remedied.
May all those in the grips of insecurity be released to the safety of understanding.
May those weighed down by grief be given over to compassion….
May all wounds to forests, rivers, deserts, oceans, all wounds to the earth be witnessed and healed through our right action.
May we work for the ending of suffering from consumerism, the climate catastrophe, war, economic disparity, racism, sexual violence, and the abuse of children. 
May those in refugee camps and prisons find their way home, with our support. 
May those who are alone or abandoned by friends and family, and those who are unsheltered find a safe and loving harbor in community. 
May we give ourselves time…with each other and in the solitudes…so that we have the courage and equanimity to be a source of love and wisdom for all beings.
May we all have the health, wisdom, and energy to serve in the years ahead…. 

— Roshi Joan Halifax