Admittedly, this will be a bit of a departure from my usual op-ed piece on the process of buying or selling a business, but over the holidays one is occasionally called upon to lead one’s family in prayer before a holiday feast, and this is my personal favorite.
Lord, Thou knowest better than I know myself that I am growing older and will someday be old.
Keep me from the fatal habit of thinking that I must say something on every subject and on every occasion.
Release me from craving to straighten out everybody’s affairs. Make me thoughtful but not moody, helpful but not bossy.
With my vast store of wisdom, it seems a pity not to use it all, but I want a few friends at the end.
Keep my mind from the recital of endless detail; give me wings to get to the point.
Seal my lips on my aches and pains; they are increasing and love of rehearsing them is becoming sweeter as the years go by.
I dare not ask for grace enough to enjoy the tales of other’s pains, but help me to endure them with patience.
I dare not ask for improved memory, but for a growing humility, and a lessening cocksureness when my memory seems to clash with the memory of others.
Teach me the glorious lesson that occasionally I may be mistaken.
Keep me reasonably sweet. I do not want to be a saint — some of them are so hard to live with — but a sour old person is one of the crowning works of the devil.
Give me ability to see good things in unexpected places and talent in unexpected people, and give me, O Lord, the grace to tell them so!
Happy Holidays and a Happy and Prosperous New Year!
By: Mike Ertel, Transworld M&A Advisors