Saint Teresa prayed much, and her precious reflections have inspired generations. One particular meditation touched my heart—it might help you or someone dear to you find peace in the journey of growing older.
- O Lord, preserve me from the illusion that I must speak up on every occasion and about every topic.
- Deliver me from the passion to arrange the affairs of others.
- Teach me to be thoughtful (but not brooding), helpful (but not bossy).
- Save me from reciting endless details; grant me wings to soar straight to the point.
- Help me remain silent about my ailments and complaints. They multiply—and so does my desire to describe them, year by year.
- I dare not ask for the grace to enjoy hearing about others’ maladies, but teach me to bear such tales with patience.
- Grant me the wonderful wisdom to know that sometimes I err. Keep me as lovable as possible.
- Teach me to discover unexpected talents in others—and grant me, O Lord, the beautiful gift of mentioning them.
(Teresa of Avila, 1515 – 1582)