Whether we are rich, poor, or somewhere in between, money and finances can be a source of great suffering. Not only is money closely tied to our very survival, but because of our consumer society our core self-esteem and sense of worth is often tied up in our income. The prayer below was originally written by Marianne Williamson in her book Illuminata. I have rewritten and adapted some of the lines to resonate with Buddhist spirituality. This prayer brings to light and invites us to let go of the ways we shut down and hold ourselves in opposition to abundance. It also turns our consumer belief system on its head by challenging us to align our financial goals with our deepest spiritual intentions.
I surrender my wealth, I surrender my debts
Whatever fear I have about money, may this fear
be removed from my mind and my heart.
Whether I believe that money is scarce, or
money is too important, or money is bad, or
money is unspiritual, whatever my ideas are
that block me, may I develop
clear eyes and an open heart.
I wish to have whatever abundance
is most beneficial to my service to the Dharma.
May money flow freely into me and
through me, that it might bless my life and
the lives of others.
I surrender any judgments I might
have on those who have wealth.
I do not wish to judge, for I know my judgment
holds back my own abundance.
Whatever lack of integrity I might have shown,
if I am indeed indebted or have violated anyone else,
may I seek to purify my karma.
I make amends to this person in my heart.
May I see clearly what behavior would allow me
to begin again.
May I hold within my mind the attitudes
toward money that would be the source of
the greatest possible freedom.
I give up my own interpretations and ask for
what is Real and True.
Whatever money comes to me, may it be used
to serve the liberation of all living beings.