Another Bunch of Prayers

I managed to attend all the writing portions of last Saturday's siddur-writing session, and here's what I produced:

On Hearing a Siren

A siren cries its note of terror--something's burning, someone is hurt, a tragedy has occurred. Please let the ambulance or fire engine and all who are aboard it travel fast and safe. May the team act with courage, wisdom, and kindness. And may the people who are in danger be rescued and healed.

Reading for after Lighting Shabbat Candles

In the beginning, God said, "Let there be light," and it was so. We, made in the divine image, also have the power to make light. When we kindle the Sabbath lights, we build Your sanctuary in time. May we enter it with joy and leave it tomorrow in peace.

A Praise for Safe Driving

That was a close one, God. I really didn't want to hurt anyone or be hurt in a car crash. If someone asks me if I believe in miracles, I have to think about all the crashes that don't happen, and say "yes." Thank You, Designer of the Universe, for keeping cars in their lanes.

Remembrance of Flawed Family

I miss those of my family who have died--grandparents, parents, aunts, and uncles. But I miss more what they failed to give me--the secure, wise, nurturing family that I wish I had. Thank You, God, for the gifts that they were able to give me, and for the family I am finding elsewhere to supply what they could not give.

Introduction to Meditation

Here in shul I want to meditate. Do I use my Transcendental Meditation mantra or choose a Hebrew phrase? Shall I think about the weekly portion or just follow my breath? I think that the best form of meditation is the one that I will actually do often enough for it to work. Any way that we structure our thinking calms us down and draws us towards You. May the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, Adonai, my rock and my redeemer.