Source of compassion,
Protector of hearts,
Hear our prayer.
We are afraid.
We feel surrounded.
We are misunderstood.
We cannot comprehend
How some
In this world
See us.
We are targeted
Because of You.
We are targeted
Not because
You chose us,
But because
We chose You.
Here is my fear:
Under duress,
I will be forced
To publicly choose.
God of justice;
God of the oppressed;
God of the shield of David;
God who promised
Sand and stars
But in whose name
We have been reduced
To mere remnants;
God from whom
We expect
To flow
The moral code of the universe,
Tell us:
How is it possible
That hate
For Your people
Rises
Time and time again;
That in every generation
We are placed
In the position
Of demanding
That You make good
On Your half
Of our bargain?
Source of compassion,
Protector of hearts,
Hear my prayer.
Whatever
I may be forced
To endure,
Bless me with strength
To add my life
To the sanctification
Of Your holy name.
Then,
When my time comes,
May I choose
My final words.
And may they be
The Shema.
