About the Prayer

I first used this prayer in the Spring of 1997, and published it on the web shortly thereafter. I have made three modifications since then, as noted in the copyright statement. For me, the prayer resonates with the most important rules for living in this world. In a sense, it's the logical expansion of my "Live in Harmony" creed, delving into what it means to me to live in harmony with all creatures and things.

I believe that we should all be focusing far more energy on the spiritual aspect of living, and less on the material. Certainly, I need to earn a living, and hope to provide well for myself and my family. However, the search for riches as a means of happiness feels hollow to my spirit. To devote all of one's energy to the gathering of money and possessions may fill the house and the bank account, but it won't enrich your soul, and it won't get you into "heaven".

What does matter is living one's life in service of others, and learning to live in the balance of all things. This means showing respect for all creatures and things, and protecting the environment for future generations. It means showing compassion to others, and respecting their beliefs even when they differ from yours.

In essence, this prayer offers a way of living no different than that recommended by most religions. I intentionally wrote it in such a way that it not conflict with the teachings of the religions and spiritual philosophies that I have studied. Perhaps that is why Christians, Muslims, Jews, Buddhists, Hindi and the followers of many different earth-based and indigenous life-ways have incorporated it into their daily lives.

I am honored and humbled that so many people and organizations have requested permission to use the prayer in hundreds of weddings, funerals and memorial services. Organizations have used it as an invocation at conferences, meetings and other special functions, and have included it in dozens of privately distributed prayer books. It has been informally translated into several languages, and the Spiritual Association of Iceland offers both the English and Icelandic versions on their web site.

I have always allowed individuals to make a single copy of the prayer for their personal use, but I do ask that it not be distributed further, preferring that other interested parties be sent to my web site instead. Furthermore, if you wish to include it in a project, please contact me for permission. Unless you plan on distributing it widely and making significant money from the project, chances are I will allow you to use it free.

Regardless of the path you follow, or the religion you espouse, I hope this prayer will help you live a better, more spiritual life, awash with joy and fulfillment.