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THOMAS MERTON (1915-1968) |
The Merton Prayer
In Thoughts in Solitude, Part Two, Chapter II consists of fifteen lines that have become known as "the Merton Prayer."
MY LORD GOD, I have no idea where I am going. I do not see the road ahead of me. I cannot know for certain where it will end. Nor do I really know myself, and the fact that I think I am following your will does not mean that I am actually doing so. But I believe that the desire to please you does in fact please you. And I hope I have that desire in all that I am doing. I hope that I will never do anything apart from that desire. And I know that if I do this you will lead me by the right road, though I may know nothing about it. Therefore I will trust you always though I may seem to be lost and in the shadow of death. I will not fear, for you are ever with me, and you will never leave me to face my perils alone. - Thomas Merton, "Thoughts in Solitude" © Abbey of Gethsemani
Thomas Merton came to me in the form of an educational booklet at the SCCA. On a day when I needed help to know that I was moving in the right direction, far from perfect, and just needing to feel love, this prayer was sent to me. It resonates with me and I think with most people.
Faith does not present itself as a provable absolute, but it does present as a deep sense of knowing we are accountable to more than just ourselves.
His parents died of cancer and he struggled to find God. I ask you to read a bit about him and pray that as this Christmas Season continues that you find more peace and faith in your heart.
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