Classic Poem

A higher thought than fills the narrow mind
Of selfish States, that seek some private end;
Did once these States with us together bind,
And to the Union power and glory lend.
'Twas Liberty which made us great and free,
A nation midst the nations of the earth;
A higher hope, a nobler unity,
Gave to each State a new, diviner birth!
That thought still lives, and still asserts its power
O'er selfish pride, and every hateful foe;
It guards our country in its evil hour,
And doth new life and energy bestow;
Will with a higher Freedom lead us on,
And as of old, of Many make us One.