A few weeks ago was my birthday. No party this time because of my accident. Taking the opportunity of having to stay in bed (and feeling already restless and at times pretty bored) I started to rummage through some old boxes of papers and some books. In one I found a card which had this Prayer printed on it – but no idea where it came from nor does it have any indication who wrote this. But I thought it somehow had the wrong title and it should be called “A Prayer for those growing older!” I think it applies to more or less all ages – even our own girls, now in their early twenty’s thought so. What do you think – please let me know.
A PRAYER FOR THOSE GROWING OLD
Lord, Thou knowest I am growing older.
Keep me from becoming talkative and possessed with the idea that I must express myself on every subject.
Release me from the craving to straighten out everyone’s affairs.
Keep me from the recital of endless detail. Give me wings to get to the point.
Seal my lips when I am inclined to tell of my aches and pains.
They are increasing with the years and my love to speak of them grows sweeter as time goes by.
Teach me the glorious lesson that occasionally I may be wrong.
Make me thoughtful but not nosey; helpful but not bossy.
With my vast store of wisdom and experience it does seem a pity not to use it all.
But Thou knowest, Lord, that I want a few friends at the end.
Amen
Photograph: MANNINGTREE ARCHIVE: Courtyard inside Cloister of the Basilica di San Antonio in Padua/Italy
Anyone 4 Curry & Other Things 
Happy Birthday!
Interesting prayer. Applicable to people of all ages, but especially applicable to the “just retired” crowd . . . especially if they no longer have enough to occupy their time and attention causing them to:
* step in and solve problems for others
* boss people about
* impress others with how much they know
* wander aimlessly through conversations
I never heard that one before, but a quick search proved interesting. Firstly it was attributed to St. Teresa of Avila, but then further checking brought me here: http://carmelitana.blogspot.co.uk/2007/03/urban-prayer-legends.html
That link held a couple of surprises, just ignore the comments.
Perfect prayer, I will send this to my 18,22 and 24 year old. They will love it.
Get well soon and pop in any time to let us know how you are doing. 🙂
I am glad you too like this “Prayer”. Will be on screen soon again. Ankle still playing up. carina
Get well sooooon :):))))))
I enjoyed this, Carina. I think it applies to everyone and not just the old. Happy belated birthday and I hope you are doing better day by day.
Love it! Thanks for sharing and happy belated birthday.
Amen indeed! I think this was written for my father. Sadly, I’m probably doing the same thing!
Oh dear it does capture the foibles of growing old. Hope you are soon out and about and enjoy your peaceful birthday
Happy Birthday – a bit late, but now I see you are alright again and on your way to India! I think this is a useful prayer, which I will borrow if I may! And, you’re so right about the title – yours is the best.
thank you, Leya. It will take a while, still feeling pretty “wobbly” on my feet. And btw – we live in South India and are now off to Bangkok/Thailand for a month. Will stay in touch with my friends from there soon. Carina 🙂
🙂
Dear Carina, I wish you a Happy + Healthy New Year 2014!
Get well and have a good time in Bangkok.
Uta