I sit, alone, in a church at noon
September 11th
And sing (loud) with my eyes shut.

I hear the old building creak
The street traffic, the city noises
And remember the silent skies
Of a year ago, today.

And in that noisy quiet
I pray for those lost
That day, and still
for the wounds that won't heal over
for the scars our nation bears
I pray for justice
for forgiveness
for understanding
for loves lost and gained
For strength and courage
And the wonder of everyday heroes

Then I close my eyes
And sing to the spirits
who inhabit this place
I pray for peace.
Amen.