Mealtime Directions

In the East we give thanks

for the air that we breathe,

for the lungs with which we take it in,

and for the clarity that that deep breath brings.

O Mind of Air, we welcome you.

In the South we give thanks

for the flame that flickers on our table,

for the light that it casts on our circle of faces,

and for the passion that it calls us to feel.

O Soul of Fire, we welcome you.

In the West we give thanks

for the water and wine in our cups,

for the pulse of the blood in our veins,

and for the loving wombs from which we all came.

O Heart of Water, we welcome you.

In the North we give thanks

for the meal we are about to eat,

for the health and nourishment that it brings,

and for the strength with which we nurture others.

O Body of Earth, we welcome you.

At the Center we give thanks

for this circle of friends,

for the companionship and love that we share,

and for the divinity that we see in each other and the world.

O Mystery of Spirit, who calls us always to justice and compassion,

we cherish you. Blessed be.