Poem September 7, 1935 Issue

Sanctuary

EDNA WISE WEST

Swift to this lovely place the sweet bird wings—
Ah, well he knows that he may come—
Here in this quiet glade
Find his full sustenance, and weave his home,
Trusting and undismayed.
Joyous on fragrant bough he swings,
Nor long delays
To voice his gratitude—
In torrents of delightful song
Pours forth his praise.

We, too, have a retreat, when sorrows chasten,
Beneath Love's wings a refuge rare,
And in that gentle shade
Tenderly are we fed and nested, resting there
Secure, and unafraid.
Then to this holy haven let us hasten,
Nor long delay
To voice our gratitude;
But may our brightest paeans of thanks be heard—
In gladness rivaling that lovely bird!