When I am vexed, let me listen for the lesson you are sending to me. When I am assailed, let me look for the gift.

When success comes to me, let me look for opportunities to share it with others.

Lord, I misperceive my place in your world. Let me see how I am just one among many.

(Letter #1,998)

If there be news to share, let me not proclaim it but spread it quietly through example.

Let me be no peacock, weighed down by my own finery. Let me be your burden-bearer.

Let my industry spread its own news.

(Letter #1,997)

They depend on me. I fear I am not sufficient. Lord, make me your instrument. Grant me knowledge of the right words to say, the acts to take.

You send these gifts my way, clothed as tests. My friends appear as enemies. I see crowds and panic, yet they come to celebrate.

Lord, what joy I live amongst. Let me see it.

(Letter #1,996)

You forgive me, Lord, and with this I am washed clean. No more must I relive my wrongs nor dwell on my shortcomings.

When I forgive my brother and sister, let the hurt be forgotten. Your grace is perfect; if I pass it on then I must love even my enemy.

These paths of relationship are choked with weeds, Lord. Ease our passage and remake our bonds. Let us forgive and love one another.

(Letter #1,995)