Sonnet XIX: When I Consider How my Light is Spent

When I consider how my light is spent Ere half my days in this dark world and wide, And that one talent which is death to hide Lodg'd with me useless, though my soul more bentTo serve therewith my Maker, and present My true account, lest he returning chide, "Doth God exact day-labour, light denied?" I fondly ask. But Patience, to preventThat murmur, soon replies: "God doth not need Either man's work or his own gifts: who best Bear his mild yoke, they serve him best. His stateIs kingly; thousands at his bidding speed And post o'er land and ocean without rest: They also serve who only stand and wait."