52 - A Song for Morning

Several years ago, Rabbi Eleanor Smith, taught me the "Modeh Ani" prayer for awakening. I like the imagery of a soul restored after sleep. I think it is also a fitting image to use when awakening after surgery or in the moment after a fever breaks, when the pain finally eases, or the symptoms of chemotherapy abate. We are restored.

Fifty-Two

A Song for Morning

Hallelujah! I will praise You!

At my waking, I will praise You:
As my ears open to familiar sounds,
As my hands touch sleep tossed blankets,
As my eyes see again the shapes of another day.

Hallelujah! I will praise You!

You ease the efforts of my rising,
Because I know You are with me;
You linger as I set out the day’s tasks,
Calling me to serve You in them all.

Hallelujah! I will praise You!

Even as my life swirls around me,
Even as the world spins on,
So You will linger with me
When I call upon You for comfort.

Hallelujah! I will praise You!

I will praise You at each beginning,
For You are the beginning;
I will praise You this day,
For You have made it.

Let my acts praise You, O Eternal;
Let my life today praise Your Name.