Peace for Shabbat

So much has been said this week. If you're following me on Facebook or Twitter, you'll know that I have posted so many articles and editorials about the flotilla incident. Many of my colleagues and friends have been incredibly eloquent and succinct.

But for Shabbat, I just want to think about peace. I know, I know, it seems so trite and silly. I know that peace needs work, it needs partners, it needs dedication and commitment. I know.

But humor me a little as we head into Shabbat, okay?

What shall I ask You for, God?

I have everything.

There's nothing I lack.

I ask only for one thing

And not for myself alone;

It's for many mothers, and children,

and fathers

Not just in this land, but in many lands

hostile to each other.

I'd like to ask for Peace.

Yes, it's Peace I want,

And You, You won't deny the single wish

of a child.

You created the Land of Peace,

Where stands the City of Peace,

Where stood the Temple of Peace,

But where still there is no Peace . . .

What shall I ask you for, God? I have

everything.

Peace is what I ask for,

Only Peace.

by Shlomit Grossberg, age 13, Jerusalem