A Birth-Day Thought

Can I, all gracious Providence! Can I deserve thy care: Ah! no; I've not the least pretence To bounties which I share.

Have I not been defended still From dangers and from death; Been safe preserv'd from ev'ry ill E'er since thou gav'st me breath?

I live once more to see the day That brought me first to light; Oh! teach my willing heart the way To take thy mercies right!

Tho' dazzling splendour, pomp, and show, My fortune has denied, Yet more than grandeur can bestow, Content hath well supplied.

I envy no one's birth or fame, Their titles, train, or dress; Nor has my pride e'er stretched its aim Beyond what I possess.

I ask and wish not to appear More beauteous, rich, or gay: Lord, make me wiser every year, And better every day.