Classic Poem

This thou hast taught me,—that it may be grand
Beyond all words to feel oneself grow old:
To watch the mists from brightening summits rolled
And pass from sweet youth's to strong manhood's land.
Thou hast turned my life's page with thy dear white hand;
Lo! with glad gaze my wondering eyes behold
Undreamed-of mountains touched by morning's gold,
And at the borders of new realms I stand.

This thou hast taught me,—that the land of death
To which, long ere thou tread'st it, I shall go
May be a sweet and gracious land to know
If only till his last long mortal breath
A man shall strive to love unselfishly,
As God's sure stars love the tumultuous sea.