Great God, I ask for no meaner pelf 
Than that I may not disappoint myself, 
That in my action I may soar as high 
As I can now discern with this clear eye. 
And next in value, which thy kindness lends, 
That I may greatly disappoint my friends, 
Howe'er they think or hope that it may be, 
They may not dream how thou'st distinguished me. 

That my weak hand may equal my firm faith 
And my life practice what my tongue saith 
That my low conduct may not show 
Nor my relenting lines 
That I thy purpose did not know 
Or overrated thy designs.

Poet: Henry David Thoreau
Poem: Prayer

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