A Prayer to Be Grateful

Help me, Lord, overcome the envy
that makes me sad
over my neighbor's success or good fortune.
Remove me from this web of bitterness
that posions my heart and mind
and leads me to complain about the blessings
you have granted to those I should consider
my brothers and sisters in Christ.

Set me free from the moral blindness
of envy and arrogance that lead me
to question your wisdom and freedom
in the distribution of your gifts or rewards.
Remind me that in every case, you know best.

Teach me to rejoice wholeheartedly
with those who rejoice
because of your blessings,
for this is what real Christian love
and solidarity means.
Teach me to count my blessings---
the numberless blessings you have showered
and still shower on me, day after day,
minute after minute.
Teach me to rejoice in them with a grateful heart
as Mary and all the saints did,
knowing that all the good things in life
are gifts that come from you.
Teach me to use these gifts well,
the very best way I can,
with wisdom and creativity,
for that will be my clearest thanks to you,
the source of all my blessings,
the source of all my joy.