Wake up Better Angel
I need you to be alert
So that no matter what the situation
I respond in a way that does not hurt.
Stand guard Better Angel of my nature
When I feel the urge to speak my mind
Help me get my point across
Without gloating, being rude, or unkind
Be ever ready Better Angel
When someone says I did something wrong
Instead of arguing and defending myself
Make sure I can say a genuine sorry and move on.
Be on the watch Better Angel of my nature
For those times when my ideas and beliefs are under attack
Help me not pursue the desire to win and be right
To the point of being harsh, stubborn, or striking back.
Look out Better Angel
For the times when people don't keep their word
Help me to be kind, understanding, and forgiving
Instead of being cutting and absurd.
Pay utmost attention Better Angel of my nature
On occasions when I feel slighted, overlooked, or snubbed
Help me not give into the temptation to over-react
By responding shabbily, or carrying a grudge.
Be loud and persistent Better Angel
When no one knows the wrong I have done
Make sure I confess, atone, and make amends
Before my time is done.
Better Angel of my nature, it's only with your active presence
I can be a blessing in my own and other people's lives
With you, I am a force for dignity, compassion, and reason
Without you, I am prone to unkindness, divisiveness, and strife.
Time and time again, I find, Better Angel
Yours is the one voice I most need to hear
Because without you, Better Angel of my nature
I would be little better than a brute, I fear.
Dear Reader…this post is dedicated to the Better Angels of our nature. Even in the most challenging situations of hurt pride or feeling wronged, we can rely on them to guide our thoughts, our words, and actions, so we conduct ourselves with dignity, compassion, and reason. If we make the Better Angels of our nature an active presence in our lives, it will be good for us, good for our families, good for community, good for society, and ultimately, good for the world.
