Growing Old

The S.D.A. Missionary Society · Oakland, California · Apr 8, 1880

FromThe Signs of the Times, Vol. 6, No. 14

Softly, oh softly, the years have swept by thee, Touching thee lightly with tenderest care, Sorrow and death did they often bring nigh thee, Yet they have left thee but beauty to wear. Growing old gracefully, Gracefully fair.

Far from the storms that are lashing the ocean; Nearer each day to the pleasant home light; Far from the waves that are wild with commotion, Under full sail, and the harbor in sight, Growing old cheerfully, Cheerful and bright.

Past all the winds that were adverse and chilling, Past all the islands that lured thee to rest, Past all the current that wooed thee unwilling, Far from the port and the land of the blest. Growing old peacefully, Peaceful and blest.

Never a feeling of envy or sorrow When the bright faces of children are seen; Never a year from their youth wouldst thou borrow; Thou dost remember what lieth between. Growing old willingly, Gladly, I ween.

Rich in experience that angels might covet, Rich in the faith that has grown with thy years, Rich in the love that grew from and above it, Soothing thy sorrows and hushing thy tears. Growing old wealthily, Loving and dear.

Hearts at the sound of thy coming are lightened; Ready and willing thy hand to relieve; Many a face at thy kind words is brightened— “It is more blessed to give than receive.” Growing old happily, Blest, we believe.

Eyes that grow dim to the earth and its glory, See but the brighter, the heavenly glow! Ears that are dull to the earth and its story, Drink in the songs that from paradise flow; All their sweet recompense Youth cannot know.

Fourscore! But softly the years have swept by thee, Touching thee lightly with tenderest care; Sorrow and death did they often bring nigh thee, Yet they have left thee but beauty to wear. Growing old gracefully, Graceful and fair.