I Do Not Ask

I do not ask Thee Lord, to take away

the thorns that grow

along the path that I must walk alone

'ere Thee I know.
 

I do not ask Thee Lord, to lighten up

the load I bear;

nor make the weary road I daily tread

one bit more fair.
 

I do not ask Thee Lord, to comprehend

the present cross.

Give me but strength to bear it patiently

nor count the loss.
 

One thing I ask, O Lord, one thing alone:

Give me Thy Hand1

and when the darkness overshadows all,

with Thee I'll stand.

 

~ Denis Cavanaugh, S.D.B.