The Only Things That Count
What does it matter if dark or brighter?
The days shall speed to the silent night.
If sky-fields glisten with starry bloom,
Or lie in the shadows of rayless gloom;
What will it matter if sun or rain
Gladden with pleasure or sadden with pain;
If only there comes with each circling hour
Newness of patience and grace and power?
What matter if days be brief or long,
Silent with sorrow or merry with song;
Strong in eloquent word or deed,
Service for others or sore self-need?
What does it matter if earnest prayer
Seems to be answered by pain and care,
If only each step of the upward road
Is one pulse nearer the Heart of God?
Naught can be gain to us, bringing His loss,
Nothing be beautiful hiding his Cross,
Nothing be bitter, His smile makes sweet,
No way be lonely that ends at Christ's feet.
