I found this in the process of
cleaning out some files. Since the author is a 17th century anonymous nun, I figured
she wouldn’t mind if I shared it.
Libby James
Prayer for the Chronologically Gifted
Lord, you know better than I know
myself that I am growing older and will someday be old. Keep me from the fatal
habit of thinking I must say something on every subject and on every occasion.
Relieve me from craving to straighten out everybody’s affairs. Make me
thoughtful but not moody; helpful but not bossy. With my vast store of wisdom
it seems a pity not to use it at all, but you know that I want a few friends at
the end.
Keep my mind free from the recital
of endless details, give me wings to get to the point. Seal my lips on my aches
and pains. They are increasing and love of rehearsing them is becoming sweeter
as the years go by. I dare not ask for enough grace to enjoy the tales of
others’ pain, but help me to endure them with patience. I dare not ask for an
improved memory that seems to clash with the memories of others.
Teach me the glorious lesson that
occasionally I may be mistaken. Keep me reasonably sweet. I do not want to be a
saint. Some of them are so hard to live with but a sour old person is one of
the crowning works of the devil. Give me the ability to see good things in
unexpected places and talents in unexpected people, and give me, Lord, the
grace to tell them so.
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