Poems (Frances Elizabeth Browne)/Self-examination
SELF-EXAMINATION.
While darkness shrouds thy mortal sightIn nature's solemn stillness, night,These questions to thine heart apply,And let it answer honestly.
What have I done that I should not?That which I should have I forgot?Have I done aught to mark my way,Or, like the Roman, lost a day?
Have I thought what I fain would hide,When my heart's inmost depths are tried?Or said what I should blush to appear,When God, and man, and angels hear?
Have I employed my tongue in praiseTo Him whose mercy crowns my days?Or thought of Him who gave me powerTo think, that I might love him more?
A day is added to my store,—Who much receives should render more;Since yesterday another given,—To-day am I more fit for heaven?