With my recent lymphoma diagnosis and ongoing treatment I have been hearing and thinking a good deal about prayer (and positive energy). I am especially struck by the diversity of meanings attached to term and curious to see what would happen if we collectively decided to develop a more universal prayer...something that could be said (and meant) by people from diverse religious traditions and even from outside formal religious backgrounds. Possible? I don't know but I am curious to find out. Anyone up for an initial draft? Candy?

(CANDY) Ok... Here goes... A great discussion at church last night about "prayer". Of course, as usual I'm left with more questions but I take that as a good sign. I don't think I like the idea of a "universal prayer" because that somehow suggests that it will be "the" prayer - used for ever more-- too static for me. Kind of like the "Lords Prayer". I see it as developing a more universal language that is more inviting and less offensive or off putting. So here's a first cut at it -- take it from here:

"In reverent awareness, let us each take time out of time to honor that Mystery which joins all lives together. We pause a moment so that each can silently name for yourself that source of being which you hold most sacred and dear....

May the noblest aspirations of life and love guide us as we continue on our journeys toward toward meaning and purpose in a world that often seems to hide clear answers from us. May we recognize truth when it comes to us and find courage to embrace new challenges that grow out of broader and deeper understanding.

May it be so...Amen"