The Prayer of St. Patrick

St. Patrick might not be the traditional prayer of Thanksgiving week, but the following excerpt has been my prayer when I'm not sure I can pull myself out of bed for the day.  Last month a dear friend I hadn't seen in two years brought me to San Diego with her for a weekend of refreshment, encouragement, and thought provoking conversation.  (That's my nice way of saying she kicks complacency in the face and challenges you until you're popping ibprofun for your exploding head... have I mentioned she's one of my favorite friends?)  She spoke the following prayer as we listened to the surf, sprawled out on beach towels.  (White sand, profound discussion alternating with solitude and sunsets... have I mentioned she's one of my favorite friends?) 

May this prayer help you when your feet struggle to hit the floor in the morning.  May it remind you of your dependance on Christ.  May it give you the fight you need for today:
 
The Prayer of St. Patrick

I arise today
Through the strength of heaven;
Light of the sun,
Splendor of fire,
Speed of lightning,
Swiftness of the wind,
Depth of the sea,
Stability of the earth,
Firmness of the rock.

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 way to lie before me,
God's shield to protect me,
God's hosts to save me
Afar and anear,
Alone or in a multitude.

Christ shield me today
Against wounding
Christ with me, Christ before me, Christ behind me,
Christ in me, Christ beneath me, Christ above me,
Christ on my right, Christ on my left,
Christ when I lie down, Christ when I sit down,
Christ in the heart of everyone who thinks of me,
Christ in the mouth of everyone who speaks of me,
Christ in the eye that sees me,
Christ in the ear that hears me.

I arise today
Through the mighty strength
Of the Lord of creation.