The Doubter's Prayer

This is my prayer and my offering before you.
Not the words oft mumbled by dwindling lips,
Not the scriptures, hallowed by the pens of scribes,
Not the sacrifices made by ancient hands.
No, this is all I can give
My half-believed god,
Somewhere between father
And the monster under my bed.
(To speak the words would be to look you in the eye.)

Now, past the disclaimers,
Tired admissions of my inability,
I pray.
Lord of my semi-belief,
God of my forefathers,
In my improbable and wavering faith,
Grant me clarity.
Give us peace.

Thank you.



(I love you.)


Came up with it during prayers the other day.
It's missing something.

I was reminded a little of Glatstein's "My Brother Refugee":
"The God of my unbelief is magnificent,
how I love my unhappy God,
now that he's human and unjust."
Look, Abbie! A post!