Classic Poem

I STAND beside the ever-rolling sea,
And look afar across the waters blue;
The waters plash a pleasant tale to me,
While Luna's silver line of light I view.

They tell of childhood's hours, when, by the deep,
I wandered many an hour in thoughtful mood,
And solemn thoughts, that in young bosoms sleep,
Came to my spirit like the breakers rude.

Then felt my soul the fetters which they know
Who fear the future, trusting not in Him
Who bids the midnight change to morning's glow,
And wipes the tears from eyes with sorrow dim.

I did not trust the great All-Father then,
Nor dreamed, that, like the broad o'er-arching sky,
His love bent over all the sons of men,
And freedom gave to those he called to die.

Now with unfettered gaze my faith can soar,
And, eagle-eyed, behold the Father's love;
With joyful trust I now that God adore,
Who rules on earth and in the heavens above.

Henceforth my soul is fetterless to range
The boundless fields of thought, and pluck the flowers
Of faith and love, which angels interchange
Amid the beauty of celestial bowers.

Free thought is his who owns a God supreme,
Nor fears to trust where vision may not be,
Assured that in the end each noble dream
Shall rich fulfilment find beyond Life's sea.