On Professional Achievement

shaking_hands3This is a prayer of gratitude to be said when reaching a career milestone. Suggestions for customizing this prayer are shown in [brackets].

On Professional Achievement
Today my dedication, commitment and achievements [have been / are being] recognized by my [peers / industry / association / union / organization / company].
With humility
I remember those who have helped me along the way,
Family and friends,
Colleagues, teachers and mentors.
With gratitude
I remember those who have put their trust and faith
In my vision and my labor.
With joy and appreciation
I remember my successes and setbacks,
What I have learned,
What I have produced,
What I have taught,
And the work that remains.

Ancient One,
Grant me the wisdom
To use this moment as the platform
For further contributions to my profession,
My organization,
My career.
Let my efforts be a continued source
Of satisfaction and service.
Let the work of my hands
Carry the light of Your blessing.

ברוך אתה ה’ אלקינו מלך העולם
שהחינו וקימנו והגיענו לזמן הזה.
Baruch ata adonai elohenu melech ha olam,
shehecheyanu, v’kiyimanu, v’higiyanu laz’man hazeh.

Blessed are You Adonai our G-d, Ruler of the Universe
Who has given us life, sustained us, and allowed us to reach this day.

© 2012 Alden Solovy and www.tobendlight.com. All rights reserved.

Postscript: Here are other work-related prayers: one to be said “Upon Losing Employment,” another “Upon Gaining Employment” and one “For Work.” See also: “Against Worker Exploitation,” it’s one of my prayers for social justice.

If you use this prayer, please click “like” on this page and subscribe. Please take a moment to post a link to your Facebook page, your blog or mention it in a tweet. Thanks. For usage guidelines and reprint permissions, see “Share the Prayer!

Tags: ,

“Alden has become one of Reform Judaism’s master poet-liturgists…" - Religion News Service, Dec. 23, 2020

“Mesmerizing, spiritual, provocative, and thoughtful, Alden was everything you would want in a guest scholar and teacher.” – Rabbi Denise L. Eger, Congregation Kol Ami, Los Angeles, and Past President, CCAR

"Alden Solovy has become one of the most revered liturgists of the last decade…" - Jewish Post & Opinion, March 29, 2023

“Alden left everyone feeling inspired.” – Cantor Jeri Robins, Shabbat Chair, NewCAJE6