What is wrong with me?
I know nothing that is good;
I cannot even think of it.
I, a sinner — alas, what can I do?
I do not know and cannot even think
what will become of me
because of my many, many sins.
Oh, where shall I turn,
to whom shall I run for help
to cover my shameful sins
and remove them with repentance?
I will turn back in my heart,
return in true repentance
to you, God, who have touched my wounds.
Awakened from the sleep of death,
I will not sin again
in thought, word or deed.
— Saint Hildegarde of Bingen (1098-1179)
