I turn forty today. 

They say, “You’re middle age,

Hope you didn’t waste your youth.”

I do see years wasted. 

I see moments missed. 

I look back on regrets, mistakes, and sins.

Yet I see more light than darkness,

Dawn breaking on a dark horizon. 

I see gifts, grace, and virtue. 

I have hope for the future,

And I pray: Come, Holy Ghost,

Spirit of eternal youth.

Keep my soul young and joyful.

Do not let humor die, 

As I join with Francis and say,

Let’s begin again, for till now

I’ve done little or nothing.