Hard Times

I am weary, and very lonely,

    And can but think--think.

If there were some water only

    That a spirit might drink--drink!

        And arise,

        With light in the eyes

And a crown of hope on the brow,

    To walk abroad in the strength of gladness,

    Not sit in the house benumbed with sadness---

          As now!

But, Lord, thy child will be sad--

      As sad it pleases thee ;

  Will sit, not seeking to be glad,

      Till thou bid sadness flee ;

          And drawing near

          With a kind "good cheer,"

    Awake the life in me

-- George MacDonald, Violin Songs