Why, when our sun shines clearest,
Why, when our hopes seen nearest,
Why, when our life feels dearest,
Rises a secret pain
Hope's perfect mirror broken
Shadows of things unspoken-
Why will not some sure token
Calm us to rest again?
Mixed with all earthly blessing
Lingers the fear distressing
-Conscience within confessing
Nothing of ours is pure.
Still must such thoughts upbraid us,
Seeking our own to aid us;
God, not ourselves, hath made us;
Trusting in Him were sure.
Thus, from our sorrows gleaning
Thoughts of the worlds deep meaning,
Let us rejoice while leaning
Firm on our Fathers arm.
Now are we one for ever,
Joined so that none may sever,
Souls, so united, never
Faint through mischance or harm.
