purpose is from this time
To reject or expel sensual images, and idle thoughts.
To provide some useful amusement for leisure time.
To avoid idleness.
To rise early.
To study a proper portion of every day.
To worship God diligently.
To read the Scriptures.
To let no week pass without reading some part.
To write down my observations.
I will renew earlier resolutions.
I will not despair. I will pray to God
for resolution, and will endeavor to
strengthen my faith.
How Can I Keep From Singing?
ROBERT LOWRY
My life flows on in endless song;
Above earth’s lamentation
I hear the sweet though far off hymn
That hails a new creation:
Through all the tumult and the strife
I hear the music ringing;
It finds an echo in my soul—
How can I keep from singing?
Be At Peace
ST. FRANCIS DE SALES
Do not look forward in fear
to the changes of life;
Rather look to them with full hope
that as they arise,
God, whose very own you are,
will lead you safely through all things;
And when you cannot stand it,
God will carry you in His arms.
Do not fear what may happen tomorrow;
The same everlasting Father
who cares for you today
will take care of you today and every day.
He will either shield you from suffering or
will give you unfailing strength to bear it.
Be at peace and put aside all
anxious thoughts and imaginations.
The Rhythm of Life
TRADITIONAL AFRICAN PRAYER
I am the drum,
You are the drum, and we are the drum.
Rhythm is the soul of life.
The whole universe revolves in rhythm.
Everything and every human action
revolve in rhythm.
The Way of the Bodhisattva
A BUDDHIST MORNING PRAYER
For as long as space endures
And for as long as
living beings remain
Until then may I too abide
To dispel the misery of the world.
St. Patrick’s Breastplate
ANCIENT CELTIC HYMN
I arise today through the strength
of the love of Cherubim
In obedience of Angels,
in the service of the Archangels,
In hope of resurrection
to meet with reward,
In prayers of Patriarchs,
in predictions of Prophets,
In preachings of Apostles,
in faiths of Confessors,
In innocence of Holy Virgins,
in deeds of righteous men.
I arise today, through the strength of Heaven;
Light of Sun, brilliance of Moon, splendor of Fire,
Speed of Lightning, swiftness of Wind, depth of Sea,
Stability of Earth, firmness of Rock.
I arise today, through God’s strength to pilot me:
God’s might to uphold me,
God’s wisdom to guide me,
God’s eye to look before me,
God’s ear to hear me,
God’s word to speak for me,
God’s hand to guard me,
God’s way to lie before me,
God’s shield to protect me,
God’s host to secure me:
Against snares of devils,
Against temptations of vices,
Against inclinations of nature,
Against everyone who shall wish me ill,
Afar and anear, alone and in a crowd.
Be Still
WILLIAM PENN
In the rush and noise of life,
as you have
Intervals, step within yourself
and be still.
Wait
