The Old Road to Paradise/Peace

by Margaret Widdemer

PEACE

All my days are clear again and gentle with forgetting,  Mornings cool with graciousness of time passed stilly by. Evening sweet with call of birds and lilac-rose sun-setting,  And starshine does not hurt my heart nor night-winds make me cry.

I can tie a ribbon now, nor hope of your eyes' pleasure  Makes its hue intolerable if you come not to see, I can hear old music now, nor stabbing through its measure  Come the thoughts I would not have, or tears that need not be.

All my days are placid now, as quiet children slowly  Pacing down a leaf-locked way that has not dale or hill; Peace again and mirth again, and dawn and even holy. . . .  I wish I had your hands in mine, and heartbreak still!