A Song of Pilgrimage (Priusquam errarem): Canticle B (metrical paraphrase)

1 Even when young, I prayed for wisdom’s grace;
In temple courts I sought her day and night,
And I will seek her to the very end;
she is my heart’s delight.

2 My foot has firmly walked the path of truth;
With diligence, I followed her design.
My ear was open to receive her words;
Now wisdom’s skill is mine.

3 Glory to one who gives me wisdom’s prize;
I vowed to live according to her way.
She gave me courage from the very start;
She will not let me stray.

4 Something within my being has been stirred;
My seeking brought a gift beyond compare:
The gift of language loosed my halting tongue;
God’s praise is now my prayer.