A Prayer

A Prayer

By Max Ehrmann

Let me do my work each day; and if the darkened hours of despair overcome me,

may I not forget the strength that comforted me

in the desolation of other times.

May I still remember the bright hours that found me walking over

the silent hills of my childhood, or dreaming on the margin of

a quiet river, when a light glowed within me and

I promised my early God to have courage

amidst the tempests of the

changing years.

Spare me from bitterness and from sharp passions of unguarded moments.

May I not forget that poverty and riches are of the spirit.

Though the world knows me not, may my thoughts and actions be such

as shall keep me friendly with myself.

Lift up my eyes from the earth, and let me not forget the uses of the stars.

Forbid that I should judge others lest I condemn myself.

Let me not follow the clamor of the world,

but walk calmly in my path.

Give me a few friends who will love me for what I am; and keep ever

burning before my vagrant steps the kindly light of hope.

And though age and infirmity overtake me, and I come not within sight

of the castle of my dreams, teach me still to be thankful for life,

and for time's olden memories that are good and sweet;

and may the evening's twilight find me gentle still.

This beautiful passage by Max Erhmann, was shared with me by a precious friend. Though we've never met in person, Julie, my pen pal of the past five years who lives "across the pond" in the United Kingdom, has touched my soul with her most generous, giving spirit. This timeless prayer seemed to me to be perfect to post at this time of year ~ may it lift your spirits and be a gentle reminder to keep hope, faith, goodwill, and love alive within your soul.

Season of Warmth and Light

Jasper enjoys the tree

It may be cold and gray outdoors, and the winter solstice, our shortest day of the year, is just around the corner ... but this time of year is one of warmth and light, comfort and brightness. It's a time to think of loved ones, those who share our daily lives and those who have passed, but live on in memory. It's a time to cozy up near the fire with a warm cup of tea or hot cider and cuddle under quilts and blankets. It's a time of candlelight and glittery decorations that lift our spirits no matter how hard the winds blow and how chill the air. It's a time for giving thanks for the gift of life itself.

Since I was a child, the holiday season has been such a special time ... a magical time of excitement and joy. As an adult, I feel more grounded at Christmastime and now experience it as a gentler, more spiritual time, but it's ever still as magical. A quote of Vincent Van Gogh's comes to mind that he wrote about love and how over time its aspect may change, but not it's essence. As the years pass and we age, the holidays take on new and different meanings, but the season will always carry us through the darkest days of winter with its warm glow.

Wishing you a warm and wonderful holiday season.

Peace to All.