Songs for Sufferers :: :: University of Virginia Library

Heaven lies within me, God is ever near,
My windows open out with faith and fear
Into the glory of the great Eternal;
A little touch of trust, an unshed tear,
And I am one with all the sweet Supernal.
Ah, no delight is as that lovely dread,
Which draws a shining curtain round my bed,

I cannot miss it, everywhere it lies,
As the last pulse of those pure charities
Which link the good and true and fair together;
The soul of churches old and chivalries,
Heaven is the rock that heeds not wave or weather.
The adverse winds but nigher bring the Power,
That breathes alike in faded leaf and flower.

I look without, and there is naught but gloom;
I look within, and find unbounded room
For all the beauty and burden of my sorrow;
The thorns whereon I rest break into bloom,
Peace is to-day and joy is here to-morrow.
I may not hide from heaven, and mercies hang
Betwixt my soul and each thrice-blessed pang.