Oh, my Father, in Heaven, hear this, my humble plea. It is no small thing that troubles me, for my heart is heavy with the knowledge of men's words that say . . . "It's only a matter of time."

Whether I be in Christ or not in Christ, this knowledge, who can bear alone? I know there are my friends and family who share this burden, but it only grieves me more to see them so troubled. For these, I wish only happiness and health . . . all the days of their lives. But they grieve with me.

Therefore, O Lord, I pray . . . first of all that, my prayers will be heard. Secondly, I pray for mercy for any wrongs that I have committed against thee or my fellow man . . . and thirdly, I pray for healing. Not the mere healing of the body is what I ask for . . . but even more so, the healing of the soul, the spirit and the mind. For when these things work together they make me strong. If God be for me, and give me strength, then who can stand against me?

Thus, my healing will be complete. Even so, I know that all men must die, and in due time, I must render up this breath of life. Death comes to all . . . but life comes but to a few. So then . . . let me love life and let me live it to the fullest while I am able. For the fairness of life is found in Christ and death reigns as king where Christ does not.

While I can speak . . . let me say words of joy, hope and encouragement.

While I can touch . . . let me reach out to others in love and compassion.

And while I can see let me see God in my fellow man.

And while I can reason . . . let me pray . . . not only for myself but for others . . . for these might return the blessing . . . when I cannot.

And while I can hear . . . let me hear wisdom and let me hear you. Let me hear the voices of those that I love . . . and those I want yet to love.

For this I pray . . . in Jesus name and for his name's sake.