Classic Poem

Why should we turn? the desert is behind us;
Before us only lies the goodly land,
Where verdant fields and shady rills will 'mind us,
By blissful contrast, of burning sand.

Why should we turn? the joys of earth are fleeting;
Each gorgeous bubble bursts before our eyes:
Unfading joys in heaven are awaiting
Those who press onward to obtain the prize.

Why should we turn? friends dearly loved and cherished
Have passed before us to the world of light:
Ne'er from our hearts has their sweet memory perished;
We wait to meet them on the heavenly height.

Why should we turn? e'en though the way is weary,
And steep and rugged, yet we'll struggle on:
Christ wore the thorns, his earthly path was dreary;
We follow thee, thou lowly, suffering one.

Why should we turn? death may be just before us;
Yet there's no turning back for Christ's dear flock.
What though the gathering tempest should burst o'er us,
We shall be sheltered 'neath Salvation's rock.

We will not turn! We welcome Death's dark billow:
'Twill bear us on to our loved Master's side;
We share his calmness who his head could pillow
Amid the storms o'er the Galilean tide.

We will not turn! On, on, we hasten gladly,
Counting the hours before our change shall come:
How can we journey onward slowly, sadly,
When just before us is our heavenly home!