Classic Poem

Not more of light I ask, O God,
— But eyes to see what is:
Not sweeter songs, but ears to hear
— The present melodies:
Not more of strength, but how to use
— The power that I possess:
Not more of love, but skill to turn
— A frown to a caress:
Not more of joy, but how to feel
— Its kindly presence near
To give to others all I have
— Of courage and of cheer.

No other gifts, dear God, I ask,
— But only sense to see
How best these precious gifts to use
— Thou hast bestowed on me.

Not more of light I ask, O God,
— But eyes to see what is:
Not sweeter songs, but ears to hear
— The present melodies:
Not more of strength, but how to use
— The power that I possess:
Not more of love, but skill to turn
— A frown to a caress:
Not more of joy, but how to feel
— Its kindly presence near
To give to others all I have
— Of courage and of cheer.

No other gifts, dear God, I ask,
— But only sense to see
How best these precious gifts to use
— Thou hast bestowed on me.