The End of the Session Brings
Perspective
Invocation for the Colorado House of
Representatives
April 25, 2013
Rabbi Joseph R. Black – Temple Emanuel,
Denver, CO
Our God and God of all
people:
As we come together on this
morning of deliberation, we are aware of the limits of time.
Only a few more days remain in
this year’s legislative session. The
calendar informs us of the fact that, no matter our desires, our plans, our
vision – we are restricted by the realities of the rising of the sun and its
setting; the passage of the seasons, and the laws set forth by our
government. At some point, no matter
what is left unfinished, the fun must stop.
The session will end. Lives that
have been consumed by legislation can return to a manageable pace. For a few months, we will be able to recharge
our batteries, put aside the bickering
and the backstabbing, the testimony and the testiness. Long nights of debate and negotiation will
end and legislators will be able to return home and become re-acquainted with
families and community. Life will return to normal.
These last few days of the
session portend more than the end of a legislative process – they also mark the
dissolution of a unique community of peers.
Despite all of the contentiousness that we have witnessed, every person
who labors in this chamber is part of something much larger than any arguments
that have taken place. Every person here
is a holy vessel. We all possess a soul –
placed within us by a benevolent Creator.
If we could only see the holiness within ourselves – and our colleagues,
then the political and partisan polarization than has plagued this House can be
put into perspective. Those who have
been elected to serve have also been part of the forming of a sacred community. The same late night sessions that have
infuriated some have also created opportunities for greater understanding and
acceptance of each other’s strengths and weaknesses, passion and pride.
This has been a particularly difficult year. We have had to confront tragedy - here in our own state and around the country. If we learn nothing else from these events, let us remember how we put aside our difference in order to both honor the victims and pledge to build a better future.
May the awareness of our
limits help us to accept our own humanity.
May enmity give way to enabling love – of one another; of our Great
State of Colorado; and of Our Creator – who helps us to see that our limits
also provide us with perspective.
For the possibility of insight and the gift of perspective
we give You thanks and praise. AMEN