An Indian Version of the Twenty-Third Psalm

Father, guardian of earth and the heavens-
Along with all things, I am your creation.
You are the tree of life, I am the branch-
Flowering, thankful and contented.

The marvels, the natural elements you have made-
I am in wonder and reverence about them.
Through your love and guidance,
You give me a precious vine to hold onto.
It is the thread of life to follow.
It leads me satisfied among the
Fragrant meadows and calm waters.
It is you who has provided
The fruits of life and I am happy.

You provide my sustenance, nourishment
From the land, the waters, and the air.
I am blessed. I give thanks for all.
I am satisfied-my bowl is plenty.

You are the Spirit at our center.

With you I am strong, my heart good.
Sometimes it is not easy, this life's road.
Sometimes I fall, tested. You give me
Strength and direction to carry on-
To pursue a path of goodness
And to care for others.

Life is but a part of the cycle-
A beginning. As with all things in time,
I know I must leave behind this
Earthly life-entering another journey
That I shall travel with no fear-for
You are with me-now, then and forever.

Bad times come with the good, but good will prevail.
I speak from the heart. I have done my best
To follow the good path, ready for the next journey.
I am prepared. It is then, in the great heavenly lodge
Rejoining my relatives, with pride in a life liven,
That I will humbly present myself Spirit Father-
In heaven, as on earth-forever.

This prayer was mailed to me. I have no knowledge as to the author or the copyright. If you have any information, please mail me.