While researching hunger issues in the Rio Grandé valley, where I did volunteer work in the migrant camps, or “Colonias” (a Spanish term for neighborhood or community) several years ago, I came across a writing by César Chavez, which I found empowering. I hesitate to adopt his description of this as a “Prayer” because it speaks more universally when not taken in a religious context, so let’s just call it an “inspired” piece of prose:
Show me the suffering of the most miserable;
So that I will know my people’s plight.
Help me take responsibility for my own life;
So that I can be free at last.
Grant me courage to serve others;
For in service there is true life.
Give me honesty and patience;
So that I can work with other workers
Bring forth song and celebration;
So that we will never tire of the struggle.
Let us remember those who have died for justice;
For they have given us life.
Help us love even those who hate us;
So we can change the world.
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About Michael Farver
Ex-print media publisher & art/design guru, foodarazzo and semi-pro chef, passionate social activist, writer, photographer and artist. I serve as a national, state and local spokesperson and advocate for childhood hunger solutions as President & CEO of the South Florida Hunger Coalition, where we work to eradicate hunger by acting as a resource and convener for hunger-related initiatives, develop and support visionary community outreach like the Summer Food, Fun & Friends feeding and enrichment program for at-risk kids, Mobile Food Pantries distributing fresh fruits and vegetables to marginalized communities, and championing the expansion and outreach of “Food is Medicine” programs to serve the needs of the chronically ill. I direct a grassroots child hunger nonprofit in South Florida as well as a private consulting business that provides leadership development, social media, brand, marketing and other services. A former handler of championship Dobermans and licensed firearms expert, I have traveled the country for two decades following the Black Crowes (in all their multiple lineups). I’m a Dad, a Husband, and when things get too intense, I flee to Italy to refresh my soul. I’m into everything from modern art, tiki and pop surrealism to wine collecting to all things touching, and touched by, technology.
Edge of the Apocalypse 