Poems (Sharpless)/Peace
For works with similar titles, see Peace.
PEACE
I have a gem in my bosom hid, From curious eyes it lieth alone;And no miser can joy more over his gold Than I o'er this jewel that's all my own.
When cruel words, with their stings of scorn, Pierce my unguarded and ready heart,I look on its pearl-like beauty, calm, Till its soft glow sootheth the bitter smart.
It is mine, all mine, while my life shall last, Given of God, and of only Him;I leave the noisy mirth of the world, The gaudy lustre that makes it dim,
To go alone, or with one I love, Where silence and shadow brood calm and fair;And looking deep in my soul I find This glorious jewel glowing there.
You who would know what its name may be, When most your hearts are free from care,Resting on God with a child-like trust, Look in your souls, you will find it there.
When the whole wide world seems fullest of love That spreads like a veil over sorrow and sin,When holy thoughts seem natural and right, Look then, for it nestles close within.