Dear Lord,

Thou knowest better than I know myself that I am growing older, and will someday be old.  Keep me from being too talkative; and from thinking I must say something on every subject and every occasion.

Release me from trying to straighten out everybody's affairs.  Make me thoughtful, but not moody; helpful, but not bossy.  With my vast store of experience and wisdom, it seems a pity not to pass it on to others, but Thou knowest, Lord , that I want a few friends at the end, at least enough for pall bearers and a mourner or two.

Seal my lips on the subject of my aches and pains.  Grant me the grace to listen to the complaints of others, but help me to endure them with quiet patience.

I dare not ask for improved memory, but give me humility to control my cock-sureness when my memories seem to clash with the memories of others.

Give me the ability to see the goodness in other people and give me the kindliness to tell them so.

Keep me where I can extract all the possible fun out of life and keep my sense of humor in good repair.  Laughter is so good for the soul and there is so much to be enjoyed in the twilight of my life and I don't want to miss any of it.

Compliments of Cora E. Turner
Submitted by: Juanita Whaley Cartier,
St. Paul Senior Citizen Coordinator
Emeritus and Founder