Notice During the Covid-19 Outbreak
In solidarity, we at the Interfaith Peace Project stand together in these times of heart break and upset. Some of you may have lost friends or family members. Some of you may have lost your job and your income; some may be working overtime to help with the crisis. Some of you may be home and alone and some may be trying to figure out a new way to live. Please let us know how we can help. If you would like a phone appointment with any of us, give us a call.You may call or email Tom at:
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February 8, 2021
AMANDA GORMAN
Poet Laurate at the Inauguration of
President Joseph R. Biden
January 20, 2021
Poet Laurate at the Inauguration of
President Joseph R. Biden
January 20, 2021
IN HONOR OF AMANDA
Sometimes we hear a voice rising
like a new star in the night sky of conflict and ambiguity.
Her voice lifts our spirit as hope is born anew
on the steps stained with rebellion and violence.
Sometimes we hear a voice clearly
pronouncing the pain and sorrow of centuries of injustice.
Her words touch our hearts rewriting
our history with hope and courage.
Sometimes you hear a voice wondering
why we never heard this wisdom before now.
Her wisdom speaks to the heart of the matter
with transforming clarity.
Sometimes we hear a voice wondering
why we ever allowed ourselves to be so deaf.
Her voice is not sweet but prophetic –
cutting to the marrow of truth inviting our hearts to change.
Sometimes we hear a voice
and our lives will never be the same.
No amount of hatred, prejudice, or fear
will ever silence her courageous voice.
Sometimes we hear a voice sounding
in our hearts and we will forever be changed.
She invites us to our truth so there will be
a new day when freedom rings and justice lives.
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From the Time Interview between Michelle Obama and Amanda Gorman
(Obama, Michelle. “‘Unity With Purpose.’ Amanda Gorman and Michelle Obama Discuss Art, Identity and Optimism.” TIME, February 15, 2021):
(Michelle) One last question: Do you have any advice for young girls, and Black girls in particular, who earn their way into the spotlight?
(Amanda) My question is do they have any advice for me. I’m new to this, so I’m still learning. I would say anyone who finds themselves suddenly visible and suddenly famous, think about the big picture. Especially for girls of color, we’re treated as lightning or gold in the pan – we’re not treated as things that are going to last. You really have to crown yourself with the belief that what I’m about and what I’m here for is way beyond this moment. I’m learning that I am not lightning that strikes once. I am the hurricane that comes every single year, and you can expect to see me again soon.
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