Courage

Pacific Press Publishing Association · Mountain View, California · Jul 22, 1913

FromSigns of the Times, Vol. 40, No. 28.

Because I hold it sinful to despond, And will not let the bitterness of life Blind me with burning tears, but look beyond Its turmoil and its strife;

Because I lift my head above the mist, Where the sun shines and the broad breezes blow, By every ray and every rain-drop kind That God's love doth bestow;

Think you I find no bitterness at all; No burden to be borne, like Christian's pack; Think you there are no ready tears to fall, Because I keep them back?

Why should I hug life's ills with cold reserve, To curse myself and all who love me? Nay! A thousand times more good than I deserve, God gives me every day.

And in each one of these rebellious tears Kept bravely back, He makes a rainbow shine; Grateful I take His slightest gift, no plans Nor any doubts are mine.

Dark skies must clear, and when the clouds are past, One golden day redeems a weary year; Patient I listen, sure that sweet at last Will sound His voice of cheer.

—Anon.