"Guardian of the crossroads, please keep clear the path in front of me. Help me turn towards light and away from harm. Mistress of the winds, please provide the breeze to keep my head cool and vision clear. Stay at my back, guiding me ever forward. Father of justice, strengthen my blood with iron. Keep my spine straight and my head high. Mother of the oceans, watch over my family and friends. As they pray for me, I pray for them - health and joy. Mother of the rivers, sweeten my words and beautify my walk. Keep me from want and allow me to respond to need. Creator of clouds, visit my dreams and illuminate corners. Remind me I am from, responsible to, all - but no one more than myself. The One, make it so. And so it is.

" --Suheir Hammad