PATIENCE and I have traveled hand in hand <br />So many days that I have grown to trace <br />The lines of sad, sweet beauty in her face, <br />And all its veiled depths to understand. <br /> <br />Not beautiful is she to eyes profane; <br />Silent and unrevealed her holy charms; <br />But, like a mother's, her serene, strong arms <br />Uphold my footsteps on the path of pain. <br /> <br />I long to cry, -- her soft voice whispers, 'Nay!' <br />I seek to fly, but she restrains my feet; <br />In wisdom stern, yet in compassion sweet, <br />She guides my helpless wanderings, day by day. <br /> <br />O my Beloved, life's golden visions fade, <br />And one by one life's phantom joys depart; <br />They leave a sudden darkness in the heart, <br />And patience fills their empty place instead.<br /><br />Edith Wharton<br /><br />http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/patience-71/
