Poems (Coolidge)/How Shall I Pray

by Helen Elizabeth Coolidge

HOW SHALL I PRAY

Thou first, thine own great impotence must feel,
Yet know there is a strengthening balm to heal,
    Then, suppliant, kneel.

The longing that thy very soul-depths surfed,
Thou needst not clothe in all expressive word,
    Unsaid, 'tis heard.

Ask not to know the Father's full intent,
For, though the answer be not as thou meant,
    In love 'tis sent.

Thy weary head on Jesus' breast should lie;
O'er storm-tossed waves the blessèd "It is I,"
    Shall soothe each sigh.