As we nurture the spirit of URI, let us renew the power of prayer and positive intention that unites our global community and awakens our hearts and souls. See the full series of posts here.
This beautiful prayer, written by Kiran Bali, United Religions Initiative Global Council Chair, calls our attention to honor and care for animals.
Kiran writes, “This prayer is important to me in recognizing the divine in all beings and spreading peace.”
For the Animals
Dear Lord, as we look into these beautiful eyes,
So innocent, so longing, so very wise,
Help us relate to the ongoing injustice pain and fear,
That these unique, beautiful souls have to endear
Dear Lord, please extract our inner compassion,
Before we watch them slaughtered or skinned for fashion.
For the voiceless souls may we become a mouthpiece,
To ensure violence against animals begins to cease.
Dear Lord, we are your instruments, through whom you work to
Ensure love and peace for all beings is applied and seen through;
To experience the range of emotions in these beautiful animals
caring, giving, ever protecting, love which is infallible
Dear Lord, open our hearts and actions to their cries,
And strengthen our inner ability, empower us to empathize
When we see animals being mistreated, abused or hit,
It is indeed high time to call it out and swiftly report it.
Dear Lord, may we take action together and become more alert,
No longer being mere spectators to their exploitation and hurt,
But ensuring animal care and protection is one of our goals,
Joining hands to reduce the plight of these deep souls.
Dear Lord, may we see the divine in all living beings,
Transforming this blankness and glaring unseeing
Through actively becoming cruelty-free when shopping,
Leading the way as prime examples of plant-based living.
Dear Lord, as our love-filled action for animals begins to increase,
May their dignity and rightful presence be restored in our definition of peace.