News


A Poem for Peace


       Directions to Peace

  

Start early.

Leave the house

of your hopelessness.

Wear only clothes

that are comfortable.

Go calmly to the home

of those who seem to hate

Carry a small gift

or piece of fruit

suitable for sharing.

Greet your host

with expressions of peace.

Upon entering,

remove your shoes

and your grudges.

Take the chair

that is offered to you.

Eat what is served.

Listen to stories

with the delight

of a child. Laugh,

at yourself.

Stay as long

as you need to.

Promise to return

the favor of friendship.

Keep your promise.

  

            Anne McCrady

 

*won The 2011 Burning Bush Poetry Prize

*appeared in 2012 Voices Israel Anthology

« Return to Home | View Archives