This blessing has appeared on many sites throughout the web, especially since Philip Yancey’s book Prayer: Does It Make Any Difference? was published in 2006. I think it cannot be repeated enough times, so that individuals everywhere realize that everyone can make a difference!
I first came across this blessing in October, 2007 in Santa Barbara, California, where a young City Councilman has it framed in his office. Please note that some versions omit the last line entirely, and others have a slight variation in the text of the last line.
May God Bless You with Discomfort at Easy Answers
May God bless you with discomfort
at easy answers, half-truths and superficial relationships,
So that you may live deep within your heart.
May God bless you with anger at injustice, oppression,
and exploitation of people,
So that you may work for justice, freedom and peace.
May God bless you with tears to shed for those who suffer
from pain, rejection, starvation, and war,
So that you may reach out your hand to comfort them
and turn their pain into joy.
And may God bless you with enough foolishness to believe that
you can make a difference in this world,
So that you can do what others claim cannot be done
To bring justice and kindness to all our children and the poor.