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You are my shepherd, with me at all times.
At my conception, Yours was the dream.
Open Your hand for I am Your small child.
I will not lack for any good thing.

In Your bright green fields I have a safe space,
My deepest needs filled by waters still.
Restore my childhood, guard and enable,
Lead me in right paths where justice dwells.

Your rod of iron beats off tormentors,
Your staff and kind crook ensure my bounds.
You mend my cup to hold and flow over.
Fear of the unknown Your presence drowns.

You are my Shepherd, I’m Yours forever,
Yours from conception, Yours from the womb.
Goodness by justice, mercy relentless,
Follow me always, till I get home.

The Psalms, like most of the Old Testament, were written in ancient Hebrew. Translation itself requires interpretation. During the translator’s research of meaning and then the choice of rendition, the translator’s own beliefs, history, culture, and personal needs do indeed color the product. Far from violating the text, however,  I find that the use of many and varying translations, interpretations, and paraphrases, such as this one, can bring me to some helpful perspectives.