Morning Benediction Poem by Kevin Rice

Is anything more beautiful than this
To walk light-hearted in the morning wood
Where air and all the elements
Await expectantly
The sun's first slow embrace?

Is anything more full of wonder here
Than leaves bidding farewell
To trees that nursed them?
Gently they break and crumble underfoot
Resigned to their last repose

And as the path goes forth
In autumn's silence
The angry roar of man's confusion
Is voiceless here
Nor do his countless engines
Trespass upon this peace or interfere
With nature's still and restful harmonies

Is anything more beautiful than this?
I see the hand of God at every turn
I wonder at the blessings here bestowed
The tokens of his love
Abound in every humble leaf and flower

And as the path goes forth
And as the sun's caresses quicken
Astonished at this morning benediction
I ask again
Is anything more beautiful than this?