I DO not ask, O Lord, that life may be <br /> A pleasant road; <br />I do not ask that Thou wouldst take from me <br /> Aught of its load; <br /> <br />I do not ask that flowers should always spring <br /> Beneath my feet; <br />I know too well the poison and the sting <br /> Of things too sweet. <br /> <br />For one thing only, Lord, dear Lord, I plead, <br /> Lead me aright— <br />Though strength should falter, and though heart should bleed— <br /> Through Peace to Light. <br /> <br />I do not ask, O Lord, that thou shouldst shed <br /> Full radiance here; <br />Give but a ray of peace, that I may tread <br /> Without a fear. <br /> <br />I do not ask my cross to understand, <br /> My way to see; <br />Better in darkness just to feel Thy hand <br /> And follow Thee. <br /> <br />Joy is like restless day; but peace divine <br /> Like quiet night: <br />Lead me, O Lord,—till perfect Day shall shine, <br /> Through Peace to Light.<br /><br />Adelaide Anne Procter<br /><br />http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/per-pacem-ad-lucem/
