My life is but a moment, a fleeting second,
that escapes me and fades away like a dream.
For love of you, Lord, as you yourself know,
only this today's day remains for me!
I long only for you, beloved Jesus,
be my support in this one day,
smile, take on the kingship in my soul
at least for today's day!
What does it matter if the future threatens me with darkness,
I do not ask for tomorrow. My Lord, just cover
my life with your shadow, protect my pure heart within
at least for today!
If I think of tomorrow, I fear the instability,
pain and sorrow penetrate my heart;
my God, I stand for trials and pain
at least for today's day!
Allow me, my Lord, to hide in you;
the noise that rules the world does not reach here,
grant me to live in your love and favor
at least for today!
Before your divine heart, I forget all that is temporal,
fear of heavy night dreams is banished in peace.
Grant me a place in this heart, I do not wish to go elsewhere
at least for today's day!
(St. Thérèse of Lisieux, excerpt from “Song for Today,” June 1, 1894)
