Do not say, “Why were the old days better than these?”
—Ecclesiastes 7:10
The days of youth are days of danger, for temptations are strong, and wisdom is in short supply.
But temptations are encountered at every age. The author of the following prayer is unknown to me, but it poses some temptations of older age.
“Lord, you know better than I know myself that I am getting older and will someday be old. Keep me from the fatal habit of thinking I must say something on every subject and on every occasion. Release me from craving to straighten out everybody’s affairs. Make me thoughtful but not moody, helpful but not bossy. With my vast store of wisdom, it seems a pity not to use it all, but you know, Lord, that I want a few friends at the end.”
Temptation doesn’t retreat
when we relax in the rocker.