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 WORKING
FOR SHALOM 
Beth Schafer
Ruach 5765
Words/Music by Beth Schafer
[Beth Schafer writes:] When America went to war in Iraq, many people fell on both sides of the
fence on whether we should be there. What struck me most, however, was
the massive amount of intelligence and raw talent that was being used
to add to the destruction of the world and human spirit.
When the most
graceful people are the fighters, and not the dancers, when the most
intelligent leaders
are marching to war and not standing for peace, and
when we talk more than we listen, something has
got to change. Working
for Shalom is a commitment to use my energy, my talent and my
influence to
always take steps toward peace. May we all be humble
enough to know that the preservation of humankind
is more important
than the preservation of our individual pride. May each person, when
they recognize what
their God-given talent is, find a way to use it to
make peace in the world.
With a fervent prayer for peace at its core, Beth Schafer sends a potent message that peace will only arrive
with our own personal involvement in the work of peacemaking. Shalom (peace) is derived from the Hebrew
root shalem, meaning whole or complete. We can begin peacemaking by using words of healing and not hurt,
by investing resources in education, and learning how to resolve conflicts. In working together toward creating
peace in our families, in our communities, and in our nation, we bring the day closer when all the nations of the
world will be at peace.
- Cantor Alane Katzew
URJ Dept. of Worship, Music and Religious Living
VERSE 1
In the garden Adam had no worries.
In that world there was no word for war.
Now banished, incomplete and full of fury,
With no garden anymore.
Hurtful words are coming from the writers.
Money meant for learning funds defense.
Graceful moves come only from the fighters.
Instead, let's get out and dance.
CHORUS
I'm working for shalom.
I'm praying for sha la la la la la la la lom.
I'm singing for shalom.
Sha la la la la la la la lom.
VERSE 2
Misdirected talent fuels the fire.
Hungry but not knowing what we crave.
Sends us 'round in circles 'til we tire
With only our souls to save.
One day we will leave our doors wide open
On that day our hearts will open too
Until that time is hear I’ll just keep hopin’
That we will know what to do.
CHORUS
BRIDGE
Who is brave enough to be humble?
Who stands tall enough to sit down?
Who can use their power to be quiet
'Til the others come around?
CHORUS
© 2003 Beth Schafer (ASCAP)
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