Friday, April 21, 2006

The Photographer's Prayer

I love this. I have journaled similar things myself and felt this very prayer to my heart, but I never put it so succinctly. I don't know who the author is, but they are a kindred spirit of mine.

The Photographer’s Prayer

Oh, God, as I bring my subject into focus and prepare to make each portrait, never let me forget that I'm creating treasures for some family, a keepsake for loved ones... Make me sensitive to the qualities and virtues of others, that I may draw out into the light, the beautiful radiant belongings of their hearts....

Help me, oh Lord, to be an artist, collecting the beauty of every soul, the glow of youth, the wisdom of age, the gentleness, the laughter or tears of each life that is precious in thy sight... Deeper than a means of livelihood, give me the perspective to see my photographer's art as a service to others, making life richer and more memorable....

And, dear Lord, between the lights and shadows, the ups and downs and the rolling years, keep me from getting out of focus or off center, so that my life and work may be framed with dignity and colored with contentment.

AMEN
Author Unknown