Teach me, my Lord, to be kind and gentle in all the events of life, in disappointments, in the thoughtlessness of others, in the insincerity of those I trusted, in the unfaithfulness of those on whom I relied.

Let me put myself aside, to think of the happiness of others, to hide my pains and heartaches, so that I may be the only one to suffer from them.

Teach me to profit by the suffering that comes across my path. Let me so use it that it may mellow me, not harden or embitter me; that it may make me patient, not irritable; that it may make me broad in my forgiveness, not narrow, proud and overbearing.

May no one be less good for having come within my influence. No one less pure, less true, less kind, less noble for having been a fellow traveler in our journey toward eternal life.

As I go my rounds from one task to another, let me say, from time to time, a word of love to You.

May my life be lived in the supernatural, full of power for good, and strong in its purpose of sanctity. Amen.

(Father John A. Hardon Catholic Prayer Book with Meditations p.49)

That's beautiful. Thank you for sharing it!

I hope all are continuing to pray for the Amish community and the wife of the perpurtrator. It is very very sad.....

Thanks Tony :(

Today is the memorial/feast day of St. Nicholas. He is distinguished in the Church for his holy austerity and childlike innocence. Chosen as Bishop of Myra in Lycia, Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey); he distinguished himself for his charity and liberality. He was particularly solicitous for the care of the young, and thus is venerated as the patron of children. (from the Weekday Missal)

O Almighty God, who hast compassed us about with so great a cloud of witnesses: Grant that we, encouraged by the good example of thy servant Nicholas, may persevere in running the race that is set before us, until at length, through thy mercy, we may with him attain to thine eternal joy; through Jesus Christ, the author and perfecter of our faith, who liveth and reigneth with thee and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen. (from the BCP)

Father, hear our prayers for mercy, and by the help of St. Nicholas keep us safe from all danger, and guide us on the way of salvation. Grant this through Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen. (from the Weekday Missal)

HAPPY ST. NICHOLAS DAY TO YOU ALL!! :)

Amen! And to you!