221 - At Bedtime

I have my own set of bedtime rituals: arranging the pillows, making sure the cup of water and the box of Kleenex are within reach, reading while I perch on the edge of the bed - just for awhile. I confess that I sleep with a stuffed animal, a little yellow chick that E.G. gave me before she went away to college the first time; I’m sleepless without it tucked under my arm.

Even more, I am trying to cultivate rituals of peacefulness to help me unclench my muscles and my jaw as I sleep. Hooked to a ventilator, its constant rhythm lulls me, metronome to my closing prayers.

Two Hundred Twenty-One

At Bedtime

Ease my mind as sleep approaches, Cast off fretful visions, open the darkness; Night Tender, guard my dreams, Help me slip effortlessly into slumber.

Eyes closing, I praise You a final time, I summon Your angels to guide my soul; I embrace my loved ones, calling their names In my heart, invoking prayers of protection.

Keep watch over me in the drifting hours, Bring me through the night in peace To wake refreshed with returning day, Alert to renewed wonders.