Poems (Procter)/Per Pacem ad Lucem

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PER PACEM AD LUCEM.
I DO not ask, O Lord, that life may be
     A pleasant road;
I do not ask that Thou wouldst take from me
     Aught of its load;

I do not ask that flowers should always spring
     Beneath my feet;
I know too well the poison and the sting
     Of things too sweet.

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For one thing only, Lord, dear Lord, I plead,
     Lead me aright—
Though strength should falter, and though heart should bleed—
     Through Peace to Light.

I do not ask, O Lord, that thou shouldst shed
     Full radiance here;
Give but a ray of peace, that I may tread
     Without a fear.

I do not ask my cross to understand,
     My way to see;
Better in darkness just to feel Thy hand
     And follow Thee.

Joy is like restless day; but peace divine
     Like quiet night:
Lead me, O Lord,—till perfect Day shall shine,
     Through Peace to Light.

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