A Night Prayer for a Fierce and Tender World

When it seems like there’s no common ground left… maybe we can start here: hand to heart. Beat. Beat. Beat. You don’t have to pray with me. But if you listen, I believe you’ll find our hearts still speak the same language.

A Night Prayer for a Fierce and Tender World

by Sarah Skinner and the Holy One who speaks to her poet-heart

September, 2025

Love does not break stride—

running, arms outstretched.

And there you are—

held.

Hush, hush.

Hush now, beloved.

The Holy One is still there

in the hush between heartbeats.

Beat. Beat.

Human. Still.

Flame of Love, keep watch.

Hold the ones I love, near and far.

Hold every child, every bird, every dreamer.

Remind us,

in the hush between,

of that holy hum we share.

Beat. Beat.

Flame of Love, keep watch.

Flame, do not flicker when fear shouts.

Where fear shouts, plant quiet courage.

Where hatred burns, sow steadfast mercy.

In this house and in my heart,

tuck me in beneath your wings.

Let the deep-night hum of peace

be stronger than the noise of the world.

Beat. Beat.

…Beat…Beat…

Let us remain—

human,

tender,

fierce in our love.

We return—

to ourselves, and then to each other.

We rest.

In the Holy One,

in each other’s arms,

or simply with one hand over my heart,

Rest, beloved.

You belong to the Heart.

Inhale: You are not alone

Exhale: You are beloved

Inhale: Love does not break

Exhale: The flame of love does not burn out