Grown Children

GROWN CHILDREN

Dear Lord, Father of all, Please watch over my children, grown beyond my watchful eye But forever in my heart and always on my mind. As Your pillars of cloud and fire led our ancestors through the wilderness, guide my children through complicated times. Grant them wisdom to make good choices in a world filled with bad examples. Grant them hearts that soar with love and break at the pain of others. Grant them health and strength to grow and serve the world through work and kindness. Shelter them from life’s worst storms, Protect them from dangers seen and unseen. May their faith in You never waiver and give them strength to face every day with hope. Bless them with simchat hachaim, joy at being alive, and to revel in their many blessings even when they, or their lives, feel less than perfect.

Our Father, who finds each person their bashert, bless my children with life partners who will make them their best selves and join to build homes and families filled with love, joy, and the light of Your Torah. God of Israel, may my children always feel their connection to a remarkable people, and to a homeland that continues to bring forth miracles. Dear God, my Partner in parenting, even as my family grows, across time and space, keep us close. Fill our hearts and homes with love and gladness. May our songs of praise, which once came from our shared table but now echo from across the world, reach You. And may we be blessed to feel connected to each other And to You Always.

— Rona Novick, Manhattan, New York