When you make a vow to God,
do not delay to discharge it
For there is no pleasure in fools (for God) –
discharge your vow!
It is better for you not to vow
than vow and not discharge (the debt).
Do not allow your mouth to lead your flesh to sin
Do not say before the Messenger that it was a mistake
Why make God angry at your voice
and destroy the work of your hands?
So with many dreams and ‘breaths’ (come?)
many words
So fear God.
Eternal Light, shine into our hearts;
Eternal Goodness, deliver us from evil;
Eternal Power, be our support;
Eternal Wisdom, scatter the darkness of our ignorance:
That we may seek your face
with all our heart and mind and soul and strength. Amen.
Alcuin