[BITList] Ain't that the truth!

[John Feltham]

Via a correspondent...


			
GROWING  OLDER GRACEFULLY

	
Lord, Thou knowest better than I know myself, that I am growing older and will someday be very old.

Keep me from the fatal habit of thinking that I must say something on every subject and on every occasion.

Release 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 all, but Thou knowest Lord, that I want a few friends at the end.

Keep my mind free from the recital of endless details: give me the 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 grace enough to enjoy the tales of others pains, but help me endure them with patience.

I dare not ask for improved memory, but for a growing humility and a lessened cocksureness 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 darn 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 O Lord, the grace to tell them so.

AMEN