LOVE IN ABSENCE

By James Henry Cousins

Hills crowned with age,

And solemn seas,

Are full of sage

Philosophies.

Yet, lacking thee,

I am not wise:

I need thine eyes

That I may see!

Insect and bird

Chant prose and verse,

God's passion-stirred

Interpreters.

Howe'er I seek,

Their meaning slips:

I need thy lips

That they may speak!

Long days that shine,

Or richly weep;

The dreamful mine

Of happy sleep,

Without thee, give

A slender part:

I need thy heart

That life may live!

Hear then my cry,

And hasten, sweet!

The world and I

Are incomplete;

Poor with all pelf;

Bound most when freed:

Thy Self I need,

To be my Self!