Prayer of the Optina Elders

I used to think that all prayer had to be original in order to be genuine and pleasing to God. But upon discovering the vast treasury of prayers in Orthodoxy, I can see how much I was missing by adhering to a firm policy of originality. The below morning prayer is a good example. It succinctly summarizes everything I need to ask for in the day, and it gently steers my wandering mind back to God's will. While I still value originality in some prayers, I am increasingly valuing the power in these ancient words - words that I wouldn't come up with on my own, but do my heart good.

Prayer of the Optina Elders

Grant unto me, O Lord, that with peace of mind I may face all that this new day is to bring.
Grant unto me to dedicate myself completely to Thy Holy Will.
For every hour of this day, instruct and support me in all things.
Whatsoever tidings I may receive during the day, do Thou teach me to accept tranquilly, in the firm conviction that all eventualities fulfill Thy Holy Will.
Govern Thou my thoughts and feelings in all I do and say.
When things unforeseen occur, let me not forget that all cometh down from Thee.
Teach me to behave sincerely and rationally toward every member of my family, that I may bring confusion and sorrow to none.
Bestow upon me, my Lord, strength to endure the fatigue of the day, and to bear my part in all its passing events.
Guide Thou my will and teach me to pray, to believe, to hope, to suffer, to forgive, and to love.

Amen