When I look back upon my life nigh spent,
     Nigh spent, although the stream as yet flows on,
I more of follies than of sins repent,
     Less for offence than Love's shortcomings moan.
     With self, O Father, leave me not alone—
Leave not with the beguiler the beguiled;
     Besmirched and ragged, Lord, take back thine own:
A fool I bring thee to be made a child.

From The Poetical Works of George MacDonald, 1893. Ordained Servant, February 2009.