There was a time when I was all alone, and days were drear;
When thoughts of self had bound my hands, and filled my heart
with fear;
So far seemed God away, 't were vain to pray that He would guide
While I was sore afraid, nor knew that He was at my side.
There came a day, while yet I seemed alone, I heard a voice;
I knew not whence it came, I only knew it said: Rejoice;
Away with every thought of self, and do some kindly deed,
And joy to share if but a crust, to meet another's need!
Love's voice it was I heard, 't was He that came and took my hand,
And gave me strength to bear, and vision clear to understand
That joy is just love's ripening grain, the precious priceless seeds
Maturing in the human heart through tender, selfless deeds.
