From: "The Celtic Spirit"

August 20

"We swear by peace and love to stand
Heart to heart and hand in hand.
Mark, O Spirit, and hear us now,
Confirming this our Sacred Vow."
---Druidic prayer of unity
The "Sacred Vow" of unity in this prayer is sworn "by peace and love"--the
two requisites without which any spiritual communion is invalidated. In
every assembly of human beings, there is a wide variety of different
opinions, beliefs, and perspectives; each unique viewpoint is essential
to prevent abnormal homogenization, wherein people supress their personal
views and maintain a phony unity. A communion of heart is focalized by
an act of intention that includes each unique opinion but goes beyond
personal boundaries, entering the circle of Spirit.

The mantle of unity is conferred-can only be conferred-by Spirit, which
manifests in many different forms to those who are gathered together.
Even to those with a formal religious upbringing, Spirit will be present
to each person in the most immediate metaphors and appearances. Like a
mountain, Spirit may be approached by many routes, and each route will
influence the ways we see the mountain. Spirit offers us each a vision
of unity if we will accept what we are uniquely shown: that the circle of
life in which we stand encircles and includes everything and everyone we
have ever chosen.

Stand in meditation, visualizing those with whom you share the circle of
life most intimately. Be aware of the rippling out of your circle in all
directions. Be also aware of the many forms in which Spirit manifests to
each of those in your circle. Make you own prayer of commitment to this
circle, or use the one above.