O, HAD I THE WINGS OF A DOVE!
By Marcia S. Avery
O, HAD I the wings of the harmless dove,
I would speed me away where the angels are,
To that beautiful land of light and love,
Where all is immortal and fair. I would soar beyond the starry blue,
To my Father's home I would quickly fly;
Bid the dark scenes of earth adieu,
Where flowers fade and die. I would spread my wings for an upward flight,
The joys of heaven I long to see,
To drink of the crystal waters bright,
To eat of life's fair tree. I would join in the song that the seraphs sing,
And tune my harp to their sweetest lays,
All glory ascribe to Heaven's King,
And everlasting praise. I would leave this earth where death's strong arm
Is daily laying its victims low,
This world of sorrow, sin, and harm,
Of wretchedness and woe. I would gladly exchange my home below
For a home in the peaceful land of heaven,
Where the waters of life so sweetly flow,
And sin is all forgiven. I would haste my flight and speed me away
To the ever-green hills of that beautiful clime,
Where the leaves of the forests ne'er decay—
Beyond the frosts of time. O, had I the wings of the gentle dove,
I would hasten away, and be at rest,
Would bask in the smiles of my Saviour's love,
Reclining on his breast. Yet far from home I linger here,
And would patiently wait for the dawn of day,
For Jesus, my Saviour, will soon appear,
And to his people say, Ye blessed of my Father, come,
Bright mansions I've prepared for you;
Accept my kingdom as your own,
Receive the earth made new. And I will be your Shepherd kind;
On the mountains of Israel your fold shall be,
Green, lovely pastures ye shall find,
And living waters free. Locke, Mich., Jan. 9, 1862.