A Prayer for Women

The World Health Organization has found that domestic and sexual violence affects 30 to 60 percent of women in most countries. Some women come out of these attacks stronger, some weaker, some determined to make change, some ashamed and unable to cope.

When I hear about specific cases of these attacks- these horrible acts- especially when they involve young women who had their whole lives ahead of them, I am so deeply saddened for them- and for human kind.  

Rather than responding with anger to the weakness and foolishness of some people, I choose to respond with respect and affirmations of the fundamental worth and potential of all women everywhere. 

I would like  to share a prayer from Ms. Katherine Tyler Scott in the book Women's Uncommon Prayers: Our Lives Revealed, Nurtured, Celebrated. 

One

I am a woman 
born of God 
I am a woman 
born of love

I am caring and competent 
vulnerable and powerful 
seeking wholeness 
physically, emotionally, and spiritually  

I am a woman 
reaching out to others 
making a difference 
in myself 
my family 
community 
church 
and the world

I am empowering myself 
to empower others 
I am struggling to accept my anger 
and use it to gain strength, confidence, 
courage, and intimacy with others

I am a woman 
who sees the interconnectedness of all human beings  
who values the unique gifts of all 

I am a woman 
who leads and follows 
who accepts responsibility for myself 
and the choices I make

Yes, I am a woman 
who sees each day as a new beginning 
a chance to grow in self, love, and service

I am a woman 
born of God 
I am a woman 
born of love 
And I can be 
All that I am

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