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Funerals are for the living.

I’ve been to too many, especially for those who died too young.

I’m not there yet, but I feel closer every year, sometimes every day.

If you, like me, can’t quite see the finish line, but understand that it’s coming, try learning – and saying – this prayer as you meditate each morning.

It’s called The Sioux Prayer:

I come before Thee as one of Thy many children.

See, I am small and weak; I need Thy strength and wisdom.

Grant me to walk in beauty and that my eyes may ever behold the crimson sunset.

May my hands treat with respect the things which Thou hast created, may my ears hear Thy voice!

Make me wise, that I may understand the things which Thou hast taught my people, which Thou hast hidden in every leaf and every rock.

I long for strength, not in order that I may over-reach my brother but to fight my greatest enemy — myself.

Make me ever ready to come to Thee with pure hands and candid eyes, so that my spirit, when life disappears like the setting sun, may stand unashamed before Thee.