OH, DO NOT GIVE WAY TO THE SHADOWS
OF CARE
I
Oh, do not give way to the shadows of care!
They will darken the dawn of your happiest hours;
Count the flowers which are strew'd in your path, but beware
How you reckon the thorns which are under the flowers.
The thorns which you tread on may wound you to-day,
But to-morrow may offer some balm for the wound;
And think not, when sunshine enlivens your way,
That embryo tempests are gathering round.
II
You blame me, and say that my spirits are light,
That I trifle with all the dark shadows you see;
But if in my prospect one portion is bright,
Dear Anna! it borrows its brightness from thee:
And when Care in his course pays a visit to us,
Your name ever proves an omnipotent spell;
And I banish despondency, arguing thus—
“Oh, I love one who loves me, and all will be well!”
III
Then look forward like me—I will never despond,
Till your lips shall have cancell'd our mutual vow;
There's a tranquil futurity smiling beyond
The light clouds that appear to encircle us now:
Though the mists of the morning the skies may obscure,
Though the sun for a while may with storms be o'ercast,
Yet at noon he'll shine forth more majestic and pure,
From the transient eclipse he unsullied has pass'd.
