During my first sojourn in Florida, I was, of course, much younger. Many of the “letters to the editor” in the newspaper seemed to be written by retirees – “too much time on their hands with nothing else to do,” I thought. Now, for my second sojourn in Florida, I’m retired and I fear that I am becoming like the caricature of older people I used to have. I’ve written to the editor, only to be rejected. So, I started a blog. More clutter in cyberspace! Therefore I share this pray which I recently found in The Complete Book of Christian Prayer. Its source is not known, other than it’s from the 17th century.
Lord, though knowest better than I know myself that I am getting older and will some day 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 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 though knowest, Lord, 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 aces 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 to endure them with patience.
I dare not ask for improved memory, but for a growing humility and lessening 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 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.
To which I can only say, Amen and Amen!
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