SORROW'S COURAGE

I have loved Beauty. I have seen the sun

Flash snowy mountain tops to shimmer of gold;

I have heard songs where little waters run

Chiming with music that the stars have rolled.

I have loved Beauty. I have seen the sea

Fringe with its silver all the golden shore;

Have heard it crooning music ceaselessly

To ancient tunes frayed from the tempest's roar.

I have loved Beauty. I have seen a smile

Shine from sweet eyes, fair as the sea's own blue,

Whose magic lashes seemed to lift awhile

To send a kindly comrade spirit through.

I have loved Beauty. But nor sun nor sea

Nor stars have charactered God's chiefest grace;

Beyond all other things there beacons me

The star-led pilgrim courage of your face.