Morning Prayer
The poem explores the idea that one's morning prayer should be a declaration of self-love and self-worth, rather than a supplication for external blessings. It argues that individuals should focus on cultivating their inner strength, beauty, and goodness, rather than seeking these qualities from an external deity. The speaker urges the reader to pray for courage, honor, and purity, and to strive to be the best version of themselves.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1887 · Genre: Poetry, Inspirational, Philosophical · 191 words
First lines
Let me to-day do something that shall take A little sadness from the world's vast store, And may I be so favoured as to make Of joy's too scanty sum a little more Let me not hurt, by any selfish deed Or thoughtless word, the heart of foe or friend; Nor would I pass, unseeing, worthy need, Or sin by silence when I should defend.
However meagre be my worldly wealth, Let me give something that shall aid my kind- A word of courage, or a thought of health, Dropped as I pass for troubled hearts to find. Let me to-night look back across the span 'Twixt dawn and dark, and to my conscience say- Because of some good act to beast or man- "The world is better that I lived to-day. "
What this Textopian page supports
Morning Prayer is listed on Textopian as a poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox, dated 1887 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Date: 1887 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Inspirational, Philosophical, Religious, Self-Help
- Length: 191 words
- Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Difficult (10th-12th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Morning Prayer by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
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- Lord Speak Again by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- The Eternal Will by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Gods Answer by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- The Rainbow Of Promise by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- The Universal Route by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse and employs poetic devices such as rhyme and meter.
- Inspirational — The themes focus on uplifting and positive actions, encouraging moral and ethical behavior.
- Philosophical — The content reflects on the nature of good deeds and their impact on the world, prompting introspection.
- Religious — The title and themes suggest a spiritual or prayerful reflection, aligning with religious literature.
Tags
Spirituality · Poetry · Inspirational · Motivational · Faith · Hope · Optimism · Religious · Christianity · Prayer · Morning · Reflection