Classic Poem

We have met like two barks upon Time's rushing tide:
We have parted, but oh, not forever!
Our pilot, our chart, and our haven the same:
We shall meet, and to part again never.

In the harbor above, where the soul shall be moored,
Far away from Life's tempest-tossed ocean;
We shall meet and rejoice where no tear dims the eye,
Where the Lord whom we love is our portion.

There the dear ones who passed from our presence away,
And left our hearts burdened with sorrow,
Will greet us again, and the glory enjoy
Of that day which shall have no to-morrow.

We sigh for their presence; we long for the hour
When our eyes shall again rest upon them;
And we almost regret that the messenger Death
So early for heaven hath won them.

Yet deep in our heart of hearts cherish we now
Such love to our dear risen Saviour,
That we echo his words 'mid Gethsemane's gloom,
“Not my will, but thine, Lord, forever.”

Baptized oft with suffering, and tasted the cup
Which our Master hath drank deep before us,
With Faith's holy boldness, and Love's perfect trust,
And the angel of prayer hovering o'er us,

We will press toward the mark; we will hope for the prize
Of our high and our heavenly calling;
Nor fear while we lean on the All-Father's arm,
For he keepeth his children from falling.