For Solitude

May you recognize in your life the presence,
power and light of your soul.

May you realize that you are never alone, 
that your soul in its brightness and belonging 
connects you intimately with the rhythm of the
      universe.

May you have respect for your own individuality and  
      difference.

May you realize that the shape of your soul is
      unique, 

that you have a special destiny here, 
that behind the facade of your life
there is something beautiful and eternal happening.

May you learn to see your self 
with the same delight, 
pride, and expectation
with which God sees you in every moment.

by John O’Donohue