Classic Poem

Beyond disputed, hungry lands
Waits in its radiant calm a Place
That knows the blossoming touch of two scarred Feet:
There enemies shall meet
After the soul affright has passed,
And face to face
And hands in hands,
They shall find truth at last,
Look deep into each other's eyes,
God-wise.

Think of that Place, ye brave and tired men,
Be kind again.

There is a victory in dark defeat,
Sublime, complete,
The triumph over self and fear and death.
Ye conquered! Draw a free, proud breath,
Lift up your heads to peace, for ye
Have won that victory.

There is defeat in gladdest victory,
And shame and woe,
If still the victor hate.
Ye conquerors! Stand nobly at the gate
Of broken hopes, pass in on gentle feet,
Salute the one-time foe:
Be great, superbly great,
Lest in this mighty hour ye shall know
That mightier defeat!

Victor and vanquished, brave and tired men,
Take love unto your hearts again.