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1852–1933

BITTER-SWEET

Henry Van Dyke

Just to give up, and trust All to a Fate unknown, Plodding along life's road in the dust, Bounded by walls of stone;

Never to have a heart at peace; Never to see when care will cease; Just to be still when sorrows fall — This is the bitterest lesson of all.

Just to give up, and rest All on a Love secure, Out of a world that's hard at the best, Looking to heaven as sure;

Ever to hope, through cloud and fear, In darkest night, that the dawn is near; Just to wait at the Master's feet — Surely, now, the bitter is sweet.

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BITTER-SWEET · Henry Van Dyke · Poetry Cove