Poems (Sharpless)/The Soul's Companions
THE SOUL'S COMPANIONS
Two holy angels hath our blessed Lord Appointed of His nearest seraphimTo open unto men His gracious word, And gather souls to Him.
One comes in glory, with embracing arms: And one in solemn shadow moves apart;Yet both with their mysterious, heaven-born charms Are near each human heart.
Joy brings her lavish gifts of hope and love Crowning with garlands the rejoicing head,Until the eyes forget to look above, So fair the world lies spread.
Few are the spirits, few, and child-like pure, Who follow her light feet to perfect blissWhere love and duty blend in peace secure, Nor feebly tread amiss.
But sorrow wheresoe'er her seal is set, Implants a thorn that stings with cruel pain;Until we seek 'mid anguish and regret Some earthly balm in vain.
Thou strengthener of souls! who piercest deep, Mother of tears! dreaded and feared of men!On whose stern bosom all who sadly weep Are soothed to peace again.
He who has never seen thy awful face Nor kept with thee pale vigils thro' the night,Listening thy wondrous ministry of grace, Learns life but half aright.
But he upon whose brow thy kiss is pressed Finds a fresh courage in each bitter loss,And follows thee, to find his only rest Low at the sacred cross.