Sunday 17 January 2016

17th Century Nuns Prayer

A little late I know!!!
When I took my pumpkin/squash photos in the autumn the colours worked really well with my copy of this prayer. I remember it being stuck inside my Mums kitchen cabinet, and then a few years back we were in Sherborne Abbey and we brought our own copy.  Do have a read of it below, as I do think that no matter what your religious beliefs or non beliefs, its not a bad guide to live by?

 
Lord, thou knowest better than I know myself that I am growing 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 thou 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 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 other's pains, but help me to endure them with patience.
 I dare not ask for improved memory, but for a growing humility and a 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.
Amen.

Interestingly there are people who express doubt at its origins, but it it is 17th century or alot more modern, I do think we can all take alot on board from it xxx

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