A poem to sit with

When I find a poem or piece of writing that speaks something to me I copy it into a notebook. Over the years this notebook has become battered, ragged and well thumbed. Often when preparing talks I dip inot it for some inspiration. I have been sitting with this poem for the last 9 days. It is by Jusy Chacago and appeared in The Reconciliation Sourcebook

And then all that has divided us will merge.
And then compassion will be wedded to power
And then softness will come to a world that is harsh and unkind.
And then both men and women will be gentle.
And then both women and men will be strong.
And then no person will be subject to another’s will.
And then all will be rich and free and varied.
And then the greed of some will give way to the needs of many.
And then all will share equally in the earth’s abundance.
And then all will care for the sick and the weak and the old.
And then all will nourish the young.
And then all will cherish life’s creatures.
And then all will live in harmony with each other and the earth.
And then everywhere will be called Eden once again.

- Judy Chicago