THE DIFFERENCE
I got up early one morning,
And rushed right into the day;
I had so much to accomplish,
That I didn’t have time to pray.
Troubles just tumbled about me,
And heavier came each task;
“Why doesn’t God help me?” I wondered.
He answered, “You didn’t ask.”
I wanted to come into God’s presence,
I tried all my keys in the lock;
God gently and lovingly chided,
“My child, you didn’t knock.”
I wanted to see joy and beauty,
But the day toiled on gray and bleak;
I wondered why God didn’t show me.
He said, “You did not seek.”
I woke up early this morning,
And paused before entering the day;
I had so much to accomplish
That I had to take time to pray.
Author unknown
This very popular yet uncredited old poem is a favorite reminder of mine. May it inspire and bring you joy.
Reblogged this on S'halom alechem and commented:
Amazing poem
Have always loved this one. Thanks for the reminder.
Yes it’s a classic… and I was thinking about it all through writing my post last night. Thanks for the comment.
I have loved this poem for longer than I can remember. When I was an elementary school principal, I had a copy of this poem in the top of my desk drawer. Whenever I’d open the drawer – sometimes just to get a paper or pencil – there’d be that reminder. With God as my partner, if I had a difficult situation to face, problems always resolved more smoothly. In our move to Montana, that poem was one of the things that got lost. Now, I’ve copied it again – and posted it right above my desk. Thank you, Gina. I wish there was a way to uncover the poet!
I know what you mean Jan! Such a comforting and wise poem, yet uncredited for so long. I love your story of enjoying it when you were a principal. Oh those lucky students to have had you as a teacher and principal. Now I am one of the lucky ones who gets to enjoy your friendship and kindness right here! Bless your heart! I am so glad you enjoyed this old poem
Those anonymous poets are the best!
So true
Thanks for stopping by Mark, so glad you liked it.
This reminds me of the fishermen that was lost out to sea in a sinking boat. First came a seagull and offered to help,and the man refused said he was waiting for God. Along came a turtle again the man refused his help and continued to wait for God. Then came a row boat and the rider offered to help the man, and again he refused. Finally the man drowned and when he got to heaven he asked God why He didn’t save him. God told the man He sent him a seagull, a turtle and a boat and the man refused all the help He sent. I love when the answers are so simple to answer. Very nice poem you wrote.
What an incredible story, thanks for sharing Kim. It goes perfectly with this poem too! So glad you enjoyed this sweet and wise little poem. Blessings, Gina
lovely words xxx
Would you like ‘The Silver Cat Loves ME’ award logo for your site? you can download it off the silver cat page or email me info@theiamprogram.com and i will send you the logo file xx
Oh my Gosh… Yes! How wonderful! Thank you so much and I will accept. Have been gardening ALL day but will be putting your gorgeous blog in my blogroll ~ currently in development
Warmest Hugs! Gina
xxoo love to you G
Thank you so much dear one xoxo
Pingback: On memorizing poetry « Professions for PEACE
Thanks for sharing this poem! A nice reminder.
I am so glad you enjoyed this poem. It is very special to me. Thanks for your kindness