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Pray For America

Jamál (Beauty), 4 Núr (Light) 177 B.E. Sunday, June 7, 2020

Day 7 entry for "The Bard's Hall Contest" .

Prayer for America

"O Thou kind Lord! This gathering is turning to Thee. These hearts are radiant with Thy love. These minds and spirits are exhilarated by the message of Thy glad-tidings. O God! Let this American democracy become glorious in spiritual degrees even as it has aspired to material degrees, and render this just government victorious. Confirm this revered nation to upraise the standard of the oneness of humanity, to promulgate the Most Great Peace, to become thereby most glorious and praiseworthy among all the nations of the world. O God! This American nation is worthy of Thy favors and is deserving of Thy mercy. Make it precious and near to Thee through Thy bounty and bestowal."

‘Abdu’l-Bahá1

In this time of protest and violence, it's sometimes difficult to say this prayer because it shows a different vision of the U.S. than the one we see on the news. However, the vision of American in this prayer is potentially what America can be. The future of America depends upon its acceptance of the oneness of humanity, which will bring justice to every individual in this country.

The history of America shows that it has never accepted the oneness of humanity. The difficulties and violence that is plaguing the country at this time of change comes from its unacceptance of the oneness of the human race. Acceptance of the oneness of humanity, means that everyone is treated equally and with justice by everyone, but that hasn't been the way American began. America has the potential to lead the world, however, without acceptance of the oneness of the human race that potential will never be reached.

We have to pray for America. We have to demonstrate, through the practice, that we accept the oneness of humanity. We have to stand up for justice. We have to speak out against hate and prejudice. America will eventually reach its potential, at least it will if each individual takes a stand for equality and justice.

Footnotes
1  http://www.bahaiprayers.org/america.htm