Poetry Explorer- Classic Contemporary Poetry, PRAYER FOR A LITTLE BOY, by BURGES JOHNSON


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Classic and Contemporary Poetry

PRAYER FOR A LITTLE BOY, by                     Poet's Biography
First Line: But while I live I want to be from quick and angry / passions free
Last Line: Things.—amen.
Subject(s): Boys; Good; Prayer


Now I lay me down to sleep,
I pray Thee, Lord, my soul to keep.
If I should die before I wake,
I pray Thee, Lord, my soul to take.
And this I ask for Jesus' sake.

But while I live I want to be from quick and angry passions free,
With gentle thoughts, and happy face, and pleasant words in every place.
I pray, whatever wrong I do, I'll never say what is not true;
Be willing at my task each day, and always honest in my play.

Make me unselfish with my joys, and generous to other boys;
And kind and helpful to the old, and prompt to do what I am told.
Bless every one I love, and teach me how to help and comfort each.
Give me the strength right-living brings, and make me good in little
things.—Amen.





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