Poems (Thaxter)/Courage

by Celia Thaxter

For works with similar titles, see Courage.

COURAGE.

Because I hold it sinful to despond, And will not let the bitterness of lifeBlind me with burning tears, but look beyond Its tumult and its strife;

Because I lift my head above the mist, Where the sun shines and the broad breezes blow,By every ray and every rain-drop kissed That God's love doth bestow;

Think you I find no bitterness at all? No burden to be borne, like Christian's pack?Think you there are no ready tears to fall Because I keep them back?

Why should I hug life's ills with cold reserve, To curse myself and all who love me? Nay!A thousand times more good than I deserve God gives me every day.

And in each one of these rebellious tears Kept bravely back, He makes a rainbow shine;Grateful I take his slightest gift, no fears Nor any doubts are mine.

Dark skies must clear, and when the clouds are past, One golden day redeems a weary year;Patient I listen, sure that sweet at last Will sound his voice of cheer.

Then vex me not with chiding. Let me be. I must be glad and grateful to the end.I grudge you not your cold and darkness,—me The powers of light befriend.