A Birthday 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 preserved from every ill
E’er since Thou gav’st me breath?

I live once more to see the day
That brought me first to light;
O teach my willing heart the way
To take Thy mercies right.

Though 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.