The Book Of Happiness

Give to me, O Lord, a steadfast heart
Which no unworthy affection may drag downwards.
Give me an unconquered heart
which no tribulation can wear out.
Give me an upright heart
which no unworthy purpose may tempt aside.
Bestow upon me also, O Lord my God,
Understanding to know thee,diligence to seek thee,
Wisdom to find thee,
and a faithfulness that may finally embrace thee.

Saint Thomas Aquinas

O God, animate us to cheerfulness!
May we have a joyful sense of our blessings,
learn to look on the bright circumstances of our lot
and maintain a perpetual contentedness under thy allotments.

William Ellery Channing