Distinguished Senators, Guests, members of the dais and the public that allows us all to serve; we greet you. We greet you as is our tradition
With the Name of G-d
Peace be unto you
As Salaam Alaikum
We begin our invocation today, in this great Chamber of the State of California Senate. As we begin, we are reminded of the words invoked in our tradition that says ‘whatever you do, do it excellently’. Facing the duties and responsibilities of those who lead it is easy to be satisfied with being good. But as Jim Collins said in his book Good to Great – “ Good is the enemy of Great”. It is in this spirit we call upon G-d in prayer, and ask for His aid, His guidance, and His protection to enable those that lead to challenge themselves to do not just good, but to do great things. In recognizing that there is a power beyond ourselves, we can truly see our role as servants striving for excellence in everything we do to serve. To achieve that goal of excellence, we need guidance and mercy to be excellent stewards of the earth:
We Come before You Merciful and Beneficent G-d
We ask for Your strength
We ask for Your guidance
Help us to be excellent stewards and leaders for the people of California
Let us be examples of mercy and wisdom
Let us reflect Your guidance in our deliberations
As we conduct the business of the State of California
Amen
