The Better Way by Phœbe Cary

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Oct 14, 1915

The Better Way

By Phœbe Cary

I ask not wealth, but power to take And use the things I have aright; Not years, but wisdom that shall make My life a profit and delight.

I ask not that for me the plan Of good and ill be set aside; But that the common lot of man Be nobly borne, and glorified.

I know I may not always keep My steps in places green and sweet, Nor find the pathway of the deep A place of safety for my feet; But pray, that when the tempter’s breath Shall fiercely sweep my way about, I make not shipwreck of my faith In the unbottomed sea of doubt; And that, though it be mine to know How hard the stoniest pillow seems, Good angels still may come and go About the places of my dreams.

I do not ask for love below, That friends shall never be estranged; But for the power of loving, so My heart may keep its youth unchanged.

— Phœbe Cary.