Mounting Losses

Screen-Shot-2012-12-15-at-9.47.04-AM-300x277This is a prayer for those facing multiple loses or tragedies. It’s straightforward and general, crafted to allow individuals to include the specific losses that have occurred. This is one of two prayers with the same structure. “Facing Challenges” deals with ongoing struggles, while this prayer deals with loss. The two prayers share common language. Word choices are shown with a slash (“/”). The blank lines identify spots to insert the specifics of your losses.

Mounting Losses
These losses,
G-d of my ancestors,
G-d of my people,
These losses continue to mount:
First ____________ [a recent event/tragedy],
Now ____________ [the most recent events/tragedies],
And I am trapped
In a pit of grief and despair.

Where is the light?
Where is the air?
Where is the sound
Of my own breathing?

Ancient One,
Grant me rest and comfort
As the burdens of loss
Rise around me,
As my suffering magnifies,
As my hope is assailed.
Source and Shelter,
Protect me.
Heal these wounds.
Bring me back to holiness and light.
Bring me back to awe and wonder.
Bring me back to Your tabernacle of peace.

Blessed are You,
G-d of Wonders,
Still Small Voice,
You heal the wounded spirit with love.

© 2015 Alden Solovy and tobendlight.com. All rights reserved.

Postscript: Special thanks to Rabbi Paul Kipnes for his review and comments on this prayer, as for his suggestion to write “Facing Challenges.” His book, Jewish Spiritual Parenting, co-authored with Michelle November, will be available this Spring from Jewish Lights Publishing.

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