Classic Poem

Not far from me , not far from me,
When first on checkered floor
I bow in humble trust the knee,
My Maker to adore;
I bow, and fervently declare,
That God is all my portion there.

Not far from me , not far from me,
In Middle Chamber led,
I pass the mystic portals three,
And up the stairway tread;
I pass before the Mark divine,
Whose light is Masonry's and mine.

Not far from me , not far from me,
In holiest place betrayed,
When human hopes all fade or flee,
And there is none to aid;
And there is none to hear me cry,
But Thee, all-pitying Deity!

Not far from me , not far from me,
These mystic labors done,
My body 'neath the deathless tree,
My soul before the Throne;
O God, through blest eternity,
Be mine a place not far from Thee .