Here in the harbor, made famous by her very existence,
Stands a lady, polished by a new American pride...
And her name is Liberty.
She holds a torch ignited by the flame of love,
And from her raised hand and her gentle eyes
She offers a blessing of reassurance with silent lips:
"Give me your weary, your dreamless, your hopeless,
Those who have lost faith in themselves and our country.
Send these, the embittered, to me.
I am living proof of what a nation of people can do,
When they believe, when they commit, when they join hearts.
I lift my lamp beside the door that remains open,
A golden opportunity for all who enter, regardless of reason."

Prayer of an Unknown Confederate Soldier

I asked God for strength, that I might achieve,
I was made weak, that I might learn humbly to obey.

I asked God for health, that I might do greater things,
I was given infirmity, that I might do better things.

I asked for riches, that I might be happy,
I was given poverty, that I might be wise.

I asked for power, that I might have the praise of men,
I was given weakness, that I might feel the need of God.

I asked for all things, that I might enjoy life,
I was given life, that I might enjoy all things.

I got nothing that I asked for - but everything I had hoped for.
Almost despite myself, my unspoken prayers were answered.
I am among men, most richly blessed.

Site Map of Patches of My Heart

HOLIDAYS

HOME

NEXT