Almighty God, by whose mercy my life has continued for another year

Almighty God, by whose mercy my life has continued for another year, I pray that, as my years increase, my sins may not increase. As age advances, let me become more open, more faithful and more trusting in thee. Let me not be distracted by lesser things from what is truly important. And if I become infirm as I grow old, may I not be overwhelmed by self-pity or bitterness. Continue and increase thy lovingkindness towards me, so that, when thou dost finally call me to thyself, I may enter into eternal happiness with thee, through Jesus Christ my Lord.

Dr. Samuel Johnson (1709-84)