The Wishing Well Poem by Della Hodgson James

I wish I knew a magic prayer 
That I could breathe each day,  
I'd ask the Lord to bless each boy
That from their loved ones are away. 
I'd ask the Lord to guide their feet
And protect them every day,  
Bring them safely through the strife
Back to their home to stay.
I wish I knew a magic song
That I could voice always,  
That would bring happiness and cheer
To every home today. 
I'd mix in all the love and hope
For those that are away,  
And from my heart a special note
That peace would come to stay.

I wish I had the gift of speech
To say just what I feel,  
But I guess if God is very near
He knows just where I kneel. 
He knows I guess, what's in my heart
And what I'd like to say,  
He knows I'm always thinking
Of my boys who are away.

I wish I had the magic power
To brighten mothers years,  
I'd reach out with a subtle touch
And dry away their tears. 
The heart strings torn with grief
I'd mend them with my wand,  
I'd bring back smiles and gladness 
To homes all o'er the land.

I wish I knew a magic wish
That would make my wish come true,  
But dear God, I guess You know
I'll just leave it up to You. 
Put love and faith in every home
Re-unite us once again
It is so hard to part.

Dear God, we wish that You could send
Peace on our land once more,  
That all the world would settle down
Be neighbors from shore to shore. 
Now I must leave the wishing well
To traverse my small domain,  
But please, Dear God! Before I go
Bring peace on earth again.

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Nov.20.1950