A LAST PRAYER

by: Helen Hunt Jackson (1830-1885)

ATHER, I scarcely dare to pray,

So clear I see, now it is done,

That I have wasted half my day,

And left my work but just begun;

 

So clear I see that things I thought
Were right or harmless were a sin;

So clear I see that I have sought,

Unconscious, selfish aims to win;

 

So clear I see that I have hurt

The souls I might have helped to save;

That I have slothful been, inert,

Deaf to the calls thy leaders gave.

 

In outskirts of thy kingdoms vast,
Father, the humblest spot give me;
Set me the lowliest task thou hast;
Let me repentant work for thee!

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