What past darkness have I allowed to shade my present?
What gloomy tunes continue to haunt?
To whom have I granted permission to rob this day’s joy,
using yesterday’s power to daunt?
To how many thieves consent I? To whom resign power to steal
that which God commands me keep?
How long march I to beat of sorrowful drummer,
possessor of no legitimate claim, owner of no God-endowed privilege?
Master, release me this day from prolonged shadows,
safeguard me henceforward bowing the knee to any false deity -
Remorse, Regret, Shame, Guilt, Fault, Blame, or Disappointment.
Bring in your everlasting peace.
For the one inalienable right of birth You give is not the pursuit of happiness,
but joy, because joy is product of love,
which we have promise of,
Your love shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Spirit.
“…and your joy no man taketh from you.” John 16:22b KJV
Word Count 154
Read more articles by Janice Cartwright or search for articles on the same topic or others.
