Faithful Return: Centering Prayers

by William Britten | Consent Cycles, Poems in Song, Wisdom Teachings

Wisdom poetry about return in centering prayers.

Faithful Return: a Cycle of Consent

ORIENTATION

The practice asks only
that I return.

The simple turning back
when the mind wanders.

I offer attention.
Grace meets me in the stillness.

The exchange happens
whether I know it or not.

MORNING ALIGNMENT

I consent to the practice.

I find my place:
breath, word, or sacred phrase.

When I drift,
I return without judgment.

This small offering,
given again and again,

this is my yes.

EVENING RELEASE

I release the day’s wandering.

The practice held me
even when I could not hold it.

I trust the exchange continued
beneath my knowing.

I rest now.