PRAYER AFTER BIRTH.

Now that I am here give me a candle to light my way,

A peaceful night and a fruitful day,

A friend to walk with and things to do,

A hand to hold and a heart that’s true.

Now that I am here,

Give me courage to carry on,

A rock to cling to when hope is gone,

A sure foot and an easy path,

A welcome smile and a bright warm hearth,

Now that I am here give me an ear for another’s despair,

A willingness to give, to care and share,

A mouth that holds back an angry word,

Humour to laugh at the absurd,

Eyes to cry at another’s plight,

A desire to continue through my endless night,

Till I get to the place where perhaps there is dawn,

Give me compassion now that I’ve been born,

Promise me nothing you cannot give,

Just you walk with me while we both live,

Then when you leave me I’ll understand,

The significance of your being, the feel of your hand,

Give me a memory of all that is good,

Justice and shelter, clothing and food,

Now I am here keep me safe from my foes,

Let me value my life as so quickly it goes,

Let me value yours too, respecting your space,

Caring not for your colour, religion or race,

Or whether you’re disabled, ugly or blind,

Let my epitaph be

“She was tolerant, kind.”