A Nun's prayer

Today I have decided to take a break from what will be the second census in Numbers and instead give you the pleasure of reading a poem.

This was given to me by Sheila from my old Bible Study group and I think it is great. I have not researched the poem, but Sheila tells me it is from the 17th century.

I hope you enjoy it as much as I have.

Nun’s prayer

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.

Release me from craving to straighten out
everybody's affair.
Make me thoughtful, but not moody,
helpful, but not bossy.
With my vast store of wisdom,
it seems a pity not to use it all,
but you know, Lord, that I want
a few friends at the end.

Keep my mind free
from the endless recital of details,
give me wings to get to the point.
Seal my lips on my aches and pains.
They are increasing, and love of
rehearing them is becoming sweeter
as the years go by.
I dare not ask for grace
enough to enjoy the tales of others' pains,
but help me to endure them with patience.

I dare not ask for improved memory,
but for a growing humility and
a lessening confidence when my memory
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.

Amen