WHAT IS A SIGH?

It is the sound

Raised by the sweeping of an angel's wing,

As through the air

It bears a prayer

Of the soul's uttering.

It is the sweet

Melodious echo of some thrilling thought

Retold by sadness

Unto gladness,

Which memory hath brought.

It is the hymn

Breath'd ever by the votaries of love,

Whose dulcidence,

Soft and intense,

Soars dreamily above.

It is the sign

Of Earth's fraternity, the only tie

That links us all,

Both great and small,

In common sympathy.

It is the heart

Issueing from its prison house of clay;

Perchance gladly,

Perchance sadly,

Wending on its way.