insomnia

What if morning breaks open before I find rest?
What if all of the stars leave my skies?
What if I can't be more than this nothing my best?
What if sleep never touches my eyes?

What if all that I do gets me naught in the end?
What if God never hears when I call?
What if everyone breaks because I couldn't bend?
What if no one is there when I fall?

What if all my security rests on a proof?
What if proof is a thing that's not given?
What if nobody lowers me down through the roof?
What if none of my sins are forgiven?

What if nothing I do can bring peace to my heart?
What if there is no end to my fear?
What if all my tomorrows are doomed from the start?
What if even then you are still near?

The ages when I cannot sleep
but watch the light around the shades,
do you, O God, some vigil keep
and watch with me the light you made?

Then hear my whispered midnight cries—
let me not wake the ones who sleep!—
Come on the stirring of my sighs,
unlseeping God, and watch with me.

Be in the eyes that will not close,
the notes repeating in my brain,
the breathing that I try to slow,
the heartbeat revving once again.

All-present God, be even here
where reason's angels fear to tread:
the heart that quakes in nameless fear,
the mind that spins uncertain dread.

These tangled sheets will be your throne
where you are worshipped and adored:
O, do no leave me here alone,
but make this bed your temple, Lord!

And let me find, when morning dawns,
your praises as the sparrows sing,
your love as great as night is long,
this night the shadow of your wings.

Amen.

Tag: insomnia

Prayer for Insomnia