Sympathy

Sympathy

The heart can in its deepest hours,

Find pleasure in the past,

And in its present of delight,

A joyful radiance cast.

On kindred souls an impress dwells,

A bond of union sweet,

A tender chord of love and joy,

To make that bond complete.

As streamlets run into the sea,

So drops the human tear;

A gentle word, a kindly act,

Will banish many a fear.

The grasping of a friendly hand,

And hearts that beat as one,

Are like the bright and radiant gems,

That glitter in the sun.

We feel the unseen silent clasp,

We listen for each word,

And though unknown the voice that speaks,

Yet loving thoughts are stirred.

Our life is but an hourglass -

A span of mystery -

Then let us cherish in our hearts,

The bond of sympathy.

F.A. Parker

4:20, p. 2

1891.02.07