Lord, make me tolerant and wise; <br />Incline my ears to hear him through; <br />Let him not stand with downcast eyes, <br />Fearing to trust me and be true. <br />Instruct me so that I may know <br />The way my son and I should go. <br /> <br />When he shall err, as once did I, <br />Or boyhood folly bids him stray, <br />Let me not into anger fly <br />And drive the good in him away. <br />Teach me to win his trust, that he <br />Shall keep no secret hid from me. <br /> <br />Lord, strengthen me that I may be . <br />A fit example for my son. <br />Grant he may never hear or see <br />A shameful deed that I have done. <br />However sorely I am tried, <br />Let me not undermine his pride. <br /> <br />In spite of years and temples gray, <br />Still let my spirit beat with joy; <br />Teach me to share in all his play <br />And be a comrade with my boy. <br />Wherever we may chance to be, <br />Let him find happiness with me. <br /> <br />Lord, as his father, now I pray <br />For manhood's strength and counsel wise; <br />Let me deal justly, day by day, <br />In all that fatherhood implies. <br />To be his father, keep me fit; <br />Let me not play the hypocrite!<br /><br />Edgar Albert Guest<br /><br />http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/a-father-s-prayer-7/
