Keep me from becoming talkative and possessed
with the idea that I must express
myself on every subject.

Release me from the craving to
straighten out everyone's affairs.

Keep me from the recital of endless detail.

Give me wings to get to the point.

Seal my lips when I am inclined to
tell of my aches and pains.

They are increasing with the years
and my love to speak of them
grows sweeter as time goes by.

Teach me the glorious lesson that
occasionally I may be wrong.

Make me thoughtful but not nosey;
helpful but not bossy.

With my vast store of wisdom and
experience it does seem a
pity not to use it all.

But You know, LORD, that I want
a few friends at the end.