Poetry Explorer- Classic Contemporary Poetry, PER PACEM AD LUCEM, by ADELAIDE ANNE PROCTER


Poetry Explorer

Classic and Contemporary Poetry

PER PACEM AD LUCEM, by                     Poet's Biography
First Line: I do not ask, o lord, that life may be
Last Line: Through peace to light.
Alternate Author Name(s): Berwick, Mary
Variant Title(s): Through Peace To Light
Subject(s): Religion; Theology


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.

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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