When you pray,
scream,
like my son did
when attacked by a swarm of wasps
whose nest he had just accidentally
stepped on.

Scream silently as I did
when advised by the midwife
to breathe and focus on
getting the baby out
soon
because his heart rate was low.

Let the tears flow when you pray
as I do when I have no idea
how to juggle it all;
parenthood,
work,
taking care of me,
and not letting any balls drop.

Ask clearly for all violence to end,
for people to feel safe on the street,
in their schools,
in their living rooms,
and not have to flee because of hatred.

Pray loudly at times,
but be sure to do so silently as well,
as God is not found
amongst noise
or wind
but amidst a quiet, almost non-audible sound.