Paul Laurence Dunbar

A Prayer

  O Lord, the hard-won miles
    Have worn my stumbling feet:
  Oh, soothe me with thy smiles,
    And make my life complete.

  The thorns were thick and keen
    Where'er I trembling trod;
  The way was long between
    My wounded feet and God.

  Where healing waters flow
    Do thou my footsteps lead.
  My heart is aching so;
    Thy gracious balm I need.