Reflect: ‘The Names’ by Billy Collins
Through our Reflect Series, CIR is sharing works of wisdom, insight and inspiration with the hope of spurring meaningful reflection. This work by poet Billy Collins was chosen to commemorate Sept. 11, 2001.
Poetry of the Sacred: Q&A with Judge Joy Ladin
CIR's annual Poetry of the Sacred contest is underway! Meet our final judge: Joy Ladin.
Reflect: ‘Wintered Over’
I don't know why I made it. Don't we all have a fierce desire to see a hummingbird drink from the trumpet vine?
Reflect: ‘The Gathering’ by Wendell Berry
"At my age my father held me on his arm like a hooded bird, and his father held him so..."
Reflect: ‘Hymn for the Hurting’ by Amanda Gorman
"May we not just grieve, but give: May we not just ache, but act"
Reflect: “Hagia Sophia” by Thomas Merton
"All the perfections of created things are also in God; and therefore He is at once Father and Mother."
Common Action: Supporting Nonprofits That Help Women in Need
Throughout the month of May, CIR will highlight various nonprofits that are supporting women in need. As part of this month-long #CommonAction initiative, we're collecting items that will be donated to these organizations.
Reflect: Pope Francis on Overcoming Violence Via the Golden Rule
Pope Francis: Our response to violence and hatred 'must instead be one of hope and healing, of peace and justice'
Reflect: Thich Nhat Hanh on ‘real prayer’
"In a real prayer, you ask only for the things you really need, things that are necessary for your well-being, such as peace, solidity, and freedom—freedom from anger, fear and craving."
Reflect: Lift Every Voice — ‘The Black National Anthem’
Often referred to as "The Black National Anthem," Lift Every Voice and Sing was a hymn written as a poem by NAACP leader James Weldon Johnson in 1900.