A Child...

A Prayer
by George MacDonald, from Poetical Works

When I look back upon my life nigh spent,

Nigh spent, although the stream as yet flows on,

I more of follies than of sin repent,

Less for offence than Love’s shortcomings moan.

With self, O Father, leave me not alone –

Leave not with the beguiler the beguiled;

Besmirched and ragged, Lord, take back thine own:

A fool I bring thee, to be made a child.