Classic Poem

WAITING for health and strength;
Counting each flickering pulse, each passing hour,
And sighing when my weary frame at length
Sinks like a drooping flower.

Waiting for rest and peace;
Rest from unravelling life's perplexing woof;
Peace from the doubts that crouch like hidden foes
And glare at me aloof.

Waiting for absent eyes,
Bright as the sunrise to the lonesome sea;
Lovely as life to youth's expectant gaze,
And dear, next heaven, to me.

Thou who didst watch and pray,
Quicken the pulse, bid doubt and weeping flee;
Or if these must abide, still let me cry,
Bring back the loved to me!