Saint Patrick

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 shield to protect me,

God's host to save me. 

Christ in the heart of every man who thinks of me,

Christ in the mouth of everyone who speaks of me,

Christ in every eye that sees me,

Christ in every ear that hears me. 

                              ~Saint Patrick🍀

These words are attributed to Saint Patrick and come from a much longer prayer called The Lorica of Saint Patrick, also known as St. Patrick's Breastplate. 

What I love is that there are two sides to this prayer. First there is gratitude. The very act of getting up and getting through the day is possible because God makes it so. 

The second part of the prayer is about intention. Through my actions, through my words, may all who meet me know Christ. This is a powerful guide for living. It is not through great, grand gestures that we make a difference in the world. It is rather by humility, gratitude, compassion, and kindness. 

May the road

rise up to meet you.

May the wind be

always at your back.

May the sun shine 

warm on your face;

the rains fall soft upon

your fields and until

we meet again,

may God hold you

in the palm of His hand.

~ Traditional Gaelic Blessing