Two friends of mine have been fighting sleep for weeks. Desperately wanting to drift off as their heads hit the pillow, they just can’t.They’re in misery. Our bodies are designed for rest and quiet to restore, replenish, and recharge. They’ve tried warm baths, herbal tea, SleepWorks (great stuff, normally), and reading. But at 2 a.m. they’re still awake–minds darting to and fro.
Their bleary-eyed tossing leaves me sad. I’ve prayed for their rest and shared with them this little poem, which has been a gentle reminder for me throughout the years when I’ve found myself desperate for sleep but allowing my worries and fears to swirl untethered.
Many years ago at a National Religious Broadcasters Convention luncheon, Elisabeth Elliot shared a wonderful message about worry and trust–and tucked in these comforting words. I played the talk again again in my car (on cassette tape!) until I had committed the poem to memory. She remembers the words hanging in the room where she slept as a child and tells more of the story on the Back to the Bible Web site.
I’ve printed it on star-backed paper and framed it for several gifts. This one is on a shelf in my boys’ room now. And I’ve sent it to my friends, with the hope that it might bring calm and peace.
How do you cast your cares away to drift off to dreamland?
P.S. These lullaby CD’s offer restful tunes–not just for little ones:
