“Who Is My Neighbor?”

 By Amanda Udis-Kessler
Recording

Who is my neighbor? Every soul who lives upon the earth. 
I have been called to treat each one with dignity and worth, 
Working for justice, seeking peace and cultivating care, 
Offering hope to those whose lives are laden with despair. 

When I can ease another’s pain, I know I’ll do my part. 
When I can bring another joy, I’ll open up my heart. 
When I have more than someone else, I’ll share the things I can. 
When I am tempted to be cruel, I’ll strive to understand. 

Who is my neighbor? Earth itself and all the beings there: 
Flora and fauna, fish and fowl, the trees that graze the air. 
River and prairie, sea and sky I honor and respect. 
These are my neighbors. These I vow to cherish and protect. 

Oh, may we build a world where all have everything they need. 
May we be free from hate and fear, from violence and from greed. 
May our lives be tributes to compassion, love, and trust 
Till we are kin to all the world and all are kin to us.