God, I confess my idolatry:
the illusion of independence.
On this day I declare my dependence.
I am free. I am capable, and responsible;
but I am dependent.
I am dependent on generations, on neighbors,
on peoples I can’t know, in many lands,
on nations and their peace,
on the earth and its fruits, its bees,
its invisible currents.
I am utterly dependent on you,
your grace, your guidance, your sustenance.
I am not independent, even of my enemies.
May I be mindful of my oneness
with all my human family,
with this whole umbilical Creation,
with you, who are my only freedom,
my life and my being.
—July 4, 2017