Poem March 17, 1973 Issue

SWEET ARE THE USES ...

Carol Earle Chapin

If I am glad in spite of many tears,
In spite of disappointment, loss, or pain,
Then I am glad indeed, because this means
I'm feeling joyful for the deepest reasons,
Not ease or human happiness or favor.
If not at hand, these cannot turn to props
To shift me from a higher, safer leaning;
Nor could I let them lull me back to sleep.
If hope be tardy, if reward delay,
I'll need the clearer view that lifts my thought
Above illusive traps and easy trusts
To finding my completeness, whole, in God.
No mortal scene can give or take away
The source of good: for this I sing today.

Carol Earle Chapin

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I Am Not Afraid
March 17, 1973
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