Falling upon the frozen world last night,
I heard the slow beat of the Winter rain-
Poor foolish drops, down-dripping all in vain;
...
I into life so full of love was sent
That all the shadows which fall on the way
Of every human being could not stay,
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I’m pardoned out. Again the stars
Shine on me with their myriad eyes.
So long I’ve peered ‘twixt iron bars,
I’m awed by this expanse of skies.
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Now what were the words of Jesus,
And what would He pause and say,
If we were to meet in home or street,
The Lord of the world to-day?
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I care not who were vicious back of me,
No shadow of their sins on me is shed.
My will is greater than heredity.
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Saw you the youth, with the face like the morning,
Refilling the glass, that foamed white as the sea?
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Sitting alone by the window,
Watching the moonlit street,
Bending my head to listen
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I saw a mother give wine to her boy-
The rain-drops fall and fall:
The pride of his parents, a household joy,
A mother's blessing, her all.
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I hold it the duty of one who is gifted
And specially dowered I all men’s sight,
To know no rest till his life is lifted
Fully up to his great gifts’ height.
...