I saw this prayer posted on social media and immediately thought of my sister who is a leader in reforming the child welfare system. For Christmas, I had my graphic designer work her magic on it and turn it into a canvas print.
The gift itself is a vivid illustration of the power of design – something bland and ordinary became a work of art. It is always worth the time and effort to have anything you value enhanced through design.
The message is a powerful one, even in plain text. As you head into the new year, I wish you foolishness in the best sense of the word:
A Franciscan Benediction
May God bless you with discomfort
At easy answers, half-truths, and superficial relationships
So that you may live deep within your heart.
May God bless you with anger
At injustice, oppression, and exploitation of people,
So that you may work for justice, freedom and peace.
May God bless you with tears
To shed for those who suffer pain, rejection, hunger and war,
So that you may reach out your hand to comfort them
And to turn their pain into joy.
And may God bless you with enough foolishness
To believe that you can make a difference in the world,
So that you can do what others claim cannot be done
To bring justice and kindness to all our children and the poor.
