I WAS a little gleaner Of all the days would yield, When wonder overtook me At work within the field. The stars they gathered round me, Holding their torches high. They cried, `Behold the chosen!' And it was none but I. They hailed me royal, kindred, And made me understand With gifts of light and darkness They gave into my hand. And here the wonder holds me Though voices all are gone, Here in the brimming silence, With this to think upon. The kiss upon my forehead Forevermore is mine. The sweetness fills my heart up; The tears make all things shine. |