(Switzerland) <br />BEHOLD a temple builded not by hands. <br />Columns of mist, all shimmering with sun, <br />Stream heavenward from the deep-cut vales that run <br />Between the mountains, and the vault expands, <br />Splendor of turquoise, groined with opal bands. <br />Cloud tapestries, of pearl and amber spun, <br />Veil in that glorious pavilion, <br />Mosaic-paved with cities, lakes and lands. <br />But far withdrawn in utter light of light, <br />Holy of Holies, is the God to whom <br />Our souls, that make their own enshrouding night, <br />Lift piteous prayer: 'Deliver us from gloom,' <br />Yet shrink aftrighted from the answering, white, <br />Unbearable Divine that would illume.<br /><br />Katharine Lee Bates<br /><br />http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/the-presence-chamber/
