“TEACHER’S PRAYER”

I want to teach my students how

To live this life on earth,

To face its struggles and its strife

And improve their worth.

Not just the lesson in a book

Or how the rivers flow,

But how to choose the proper path

Wherever they may go.

To understand eternal truth

And know the right from wrong,

And gather all the beauty of

A flower and a song.

For if I help the world to grow

In wisdom and in grace

Then I shall fell that have won

And I have filled my place.

And so I ask your guidance, God,

That I may do my part

For character and confidence

And happiness of heart.

James J. Melcalf