My Silent Prayer

Oh, God,

As I bring my subject into focus
and prepare to make each portrait,
never let me forget
that I’m creating treasures for some family,
a keepsake for loved ones.

Make me sensitive
to the qualities and virtues of others,
that I may draw out into the light,
the beautiful radiant belongings of their hearts.

Help me, oh Lord, to be an artist,
collecting the beauty of every soul,
the glow of youth,
the wisdom of age,
the gentleness,
the laughter or tears of each life
that is precious in thy sight.

Deeper than a means of livelihood,
give me the perspective to see my art
as a service to others,
making life richer and more memorable.

And, dear Lord, between the lights and shadows,
the ups and downs
and the rolling years,
keep me from getting out of focus or off center,
so that my life and work
may be framed with dignity and colored with contentment.

Amen