FEELINGS

Lord, I sometimes have trouble expressing the way I really feel. I often say something I later regret and continue to use unkind or sarcastic comments to get my point across. There are times when I talk to much-revealing confidences, gossiping about others, or expressing opinions without knowing the facts. There are times, too, when I talk too little withdrawing into a stony silence or nursing resentments instead of being honest.

I need your guidance, Lord, to be able to actively show expressions of sympathy, enthusiasm, encouragement, and forgiveness, both easily and lovingly. Remind me too, that one of the most effective ways to communicate is often to remain silent and to listen. Teach me to listen and to truly hear what others are saying to me. Thank you Lord for hearing me.

A Prayer

Dear God, despite my best intentions to remain calm and take things in stride, my anger has gotten the better of me once again. Keep me from saying or doing things that I might later regret. Help me find ways to use this time productively until I am enough in control of myself to make rational and wise decisions. May I learn to look more on the positive side of everything, even the most difficult situations. Relieve me of the burden of this painful emotion, and restore peace in my life. Help me to find some time each day to reflect on what is good and beautiful in the world and in the people around me.

From the Heart of Maryjane

I wonder how many that read the two prayers above will relate to them as well as I have. I found them in a prayer book I've been reading and the words hit pretty close to how I am. Something to think about!