You who would pass by
and rise your hand against me
listen before you harm me.
...I am the heat of your hearth
on long winter nights; the friendly shade screening you
from the summer sun
and my fruits are refreshing draughts.
I am the beam that holds your house,
the board of your table,
the bed on which you lie,
and the timber that builds your boat.
I am the handle of your hoe
and the door of you homestead.
I am the wood of your cradle
and the shell of your coffin.
I am the gift of God and friend of man.
You who pass by me
listen to my prayer
and harm me not.
