The Prayer Garland

a poem by Matthew Adukanil

Prayer is harmony, integration
Fusion of thoughts, words and deeds
A seamless garment woven of all three.

Standing before the Lord, in my open arms
I hold all mankind’s brothers and sisters
Every living creature of earth, sea and sky.

In my heart’s hearth prayers’ candles
Thaw, break and melt cold, benumbing ice of
Hatred, divisions, pains and distrust.

Prayer unlocks the door to your brother’s heart
You feel his hearthrobs, sense his yearnings,
He prays best who feels with humanity best.

Worship is a freshly woven garland for the Lord
Gathering all living, beating hearts into one
On the sweet scented thread of brotherhood.