A PRAYER The supreme prayer of my heart is not to be…
““A PRAYER The supreme prayer of my heart is not to be learned, rich, famous, powerful, or “good,” but simply to be radiant. I desire to radiate health, cheerfulness, calm courage and good will. I wish to live without hate, whim, jealousy, envy, fear. I wish to be simple, honest, frank, natural, clean in mind and clean in body, unaffected—ready to say “I do not know,” if it be so, and to meet all men on an absolute equality—to face any obstacle and meet every difficulty unabashed and unafraid. I wish others to live their lives, too—up to their highest, fullest and best. To that end I pray that I may never meddle, interfere, dictate, give advice that is not wanted, or assist when my services are not needed. If I can help people, I’ll do it by giving them a chance to help themselves; and if I can uplift or inspire, let it be by example, inference, and suggestion, rather than by injunction and dictation.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The prayer seeks inner radiance, health, honesty, and humility, rejecting material desires and imposing one's will on others, emphasizing equality and selfless assistance.
In simple terms: Pray for inner light, health, honesty, and humility, not fame or power.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate inner radiance and selfless service.
Themes
spirituality
humility
service
Mood
reflective
compassionate
Type
inspirational
ethical
When to use this quote
- personal growth
- community volunteering
- mentorship
- conflict resolution
Key Concepts
self‑actualization
inner peace
Questions to Reflect On
- How can one help others without losing self?
- What limits should be set on offering advice?
A Different Perspective
Pure altruism can lead to burnout if boundaries aren't set.