UNBOUND

From olden story of three Hebrew youths
Into a Babylonian furnace cast,
The lesson clear of Science-lighted truths
Gleams on our waiting thought to make steadfast
Each right resolve, make waning courage strong.
'T was heated seven times, yet from that fire
All scatheless they emerged, and mid the throng
Of wondering courtiers stood serene. Fierce ire
And mandate stern of earthly potentate
Proved powerless. Not e'en the smell of flame
On them had passed; and glorious to relate
Within that blazing pit, as forth they came,
They left their fetters, for though fallen, bound,
The three rose, loose, walking with movement free.
Thus Love's deliverance complete was found.
When we, at mortal mind's unjust decree,
Seem shackled in sore tribulation's fire,
We, too, may prove, if unto Truth we cleave,
Naught can be lost save only what desire
Would bid us gladly yield—our bonds! To leave
Behind, consumed, false concepts; errors old;
Tormenting fears; sad memories of the past—
Whate'er would firm in mental thralldom hold—
This were a joy, and compensation vast
After adversity. So, faithful stand.
Dear sufferer! Thou wilt come forth unbound
From foolish evil's self-destroying hand,
And praise to God will rise from all around.