Last Wednesday evening, I had the privilege of attending a program at Carnegie Hall featuring work from participants in the Creative Arts Therapy Program at Rikers Island. It was a beautiful evening. Original artwork was all over the walls of the reception area. A short film featuring dance and music programs was shown, and then a panel including Arts Therapists, a former program participant, and someone working with citizens returning to their communities went deeper into the power of creative work in helping people find their voices.
On this Thanksgiving weekend, as we think about the aspects of our lives for which we are grateful I share this offering from a detainee identified as Nathaniel G. It is an aspirational piece—both a description and a prayer for embracing values that overlap with Gospel teachings and help us all as we negotiate challenges, opportunities and joys.
Twelve Steps Back Into Society
Love, an important word. Wondering how much do you have?
Peace, find it, keep it and don’t let it be up for grabs.
Redemption, something we need for all the things we’ve done in our paths.
Comfort. It’s temporary but we’ll always try to make it last.
Honor, usually found with good deeds and normal limits surpassed.
Respect. For others and yourself you should have
Perseverance, meaning keep going and do as much as you can.
Responsibility, has been knows to build a man.
Optimism: Find your light and protect it while it expands.
Business, is a pleasure and how a lot of the world is ran.
Prophet, we all can tell the future because we all play a hand.
Humanity, thrives when you live from the soul and align with higher plans.
As we give thanks this weekend and move into the season of Advent on Sunday, may we all live from our souls and align with God’s higher plans!
Blessings,
