I Ask for Strength, but Not for Power

I ask for daily bread, but not for wealth, lest I forget the poor.
I ask for strength, but not for power, lest I despise the meek.
I ask for wisdom, but not for learning, lest I scorn the simple.
I ask for peace of mind, but not for idle hours, lest I fail to hearken to the call of duty.

— Inazo Nitobe, 1909
Japanese Quaker politician and writer

Today’s Invitation

Repeat today’s message out loud as a prayer, carefully considering the nuances of each line.

This Week’s Query

How do you prepare your body and spirit for a difficult conversation or interaction?

How do you remain loving during conflict?

Share your response!

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Author

  • Inazo Nitobe (1862 –1933) was a Japanese agronomist, diplomat, political scientist, politician, and writer. He served as the deputy secretary general of the League of Nations. He also devoted himself to women's education. After a living in the US for three years, he became a Quaker and influenced the establishment of the Friends School in Tokyo.

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