A Prayer, By Paul Eugene Shepard Poem by Paul Shepard

Let me do my work each day, and if the darkened hours of despair should overtake me
Let me not forget the strength that comforted me in the desolation of other times

Let me still remember the bright hours of my childhood that saw me walking along the margin of a quiet river while a light glowed within me and I promised my early God to have courage midst the tempest of the changing years

Spare me from bitterness and from the passions of unguarded moments. Give me a few friends who will love me for what I am and keep ever burning before vagrant steps the kindly light of hope.

When age and infirmity shall overtake me and I come not within sight of the castle of my dreams Let me be thankful for life and for times golden memories that are good and sweet and may evenings twilight find me gentle still

Paul Eugene Shepard