The following is a Peace Prayer that we can say and live as we attend with our hearts to the horrific conflicts in the Middle East and as we approach Remembrance Day.

Taking Sides

Today I am taking sides. I am taking the side of Peace. Peace, which I will not abandon even when its voice is drowned out by hurt and hatred, bitterness of loss, cries of right and wrong.

I am taking the side of Peace whose name has barely been spoken in this winnerless war.

I will hold Peace in my arms, and share my body`s breath, lest Peace be added to the body count.

I will call for de-escalation even when I want nothing more than to get even. I will do it in the service of Peace.

I will make a clearing in the overgrown thicket of cause and effect so Peace can breathe for a minute and reach for the sky.

I will do what I must to save the life of Peace. I will breathe through tears. I will swallow pride. I will bite my tongue. I will offer love without testing for deservingness.

So don`t ask me to wave a flag today unless it is the flag of Peace. Don`t ask me to sing an anthem unless it is a song of Peace. Don`t ask me to take sides unless it is the side of Peace.

Rabbi Irwin Keller