As I Hunger Poem by Harley White

As I hunger for food and for water thirst—
As I long for a lover, so now do I pray.
Let me free my brothers, so sadly accursed.
But to see them be happy— I live for that day.

How can I feel pleasure or earthly delight
While my loved ones still suffer? — Their anguish I share.
Oh, if I could save them from their lonely plight,
I would brave any hardship or go anywhere.

As a flower reaches toward the sun,
As the moon appears when day is done,
As the grasses sway when a zephyr blows,
From the depths of my heart this yearning flows.

If my wishes had wings I'd ride through the skies,
And with merciful joy I would light up the way
For my wild swan brothers. Oh, may I be wise! —
Let me save them from sorrow.— So now do I pray.