Time to Axe My Anger

Today I hurt, my closest friend.  I punched him.  Left a bruise.
then sent my little boy to school.  It’s now the latest news.
I make myself, a little sick, for what I did today.
I’ve carried anger, far too long.  It’s time it go away.

Been thirty years inside me, building steam and often blowing.
An awful lot like cancer, by the way that it was growing.
I know I need to let it go.  Please pray for my success.
Deep down, I must admit it now, it’s made my life a mess.

I try so hard to do my best.  To be the perfect dad.
I miss my mark quite often and I often end up mad.
The kids do not respond to me, at times as I expect them.
I get these angry feelings going and, like a fool, collect them.

It’s such an ugly part of me.  A part I hate to show.
Dear God, please take my anger now!  Please help me let it go!
So much I’ve to be grateful for.  Lord please don’t leave my mind.
When peaceful feelings start to fade, make new ones quick to find.

Don’t let my tongue express harsh words, nor take your name in vain.
Clear my mind, dear God, I pray, of words inflicting pain.
Take all thoughts of violence.  Replace them with compassion.
Keep my tongue inside my mouth, where it can do no slashin’.

Give me new perspectives, Lord, in each and every thought.
Teach me calmer lessons, please.  The ones I’ve not been taught.
Help me be a rational, calm, collected dad.
Cause, frankly, I’m completely, sick and tired of being mad.