Poem October 5, 1963 Issue

UP FROM JORDAN

Hazel Harper Brandner

False pride entangled me, my steps were caught
In web or snare; then, breaking through the dream,
Words like Elisha's stirred my inmost thought:
"Immerse thyself in Jordan's healing stream
Full seven times and cleanse thyself of pride,
Self-righteousness, self-will, and arrogance."
An angel, voicing this, was at my side
Arousing me and urging my advance.

Like Naaman, I too began to balk,
"Why should I dip in Jordan as my part?"
Then I recalled I was not asked to walk
Upon the water, but to cleanse my heart.
So I went down in new humility
And coming up from Jordan, I was free!

Hazel Harper Brandner

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