The valley lay in shadows deep and dark;
Ice-blighted trees stood in the bitter air.
It was a dreary, desolated place
That showed no life nor beauty anywhere.
I found at last a solitary way,
A path that led my weary, listless feet
Up out of darkness and the cold below
To sunshine and to bird songs clear and sweet.
So Spirit, God, directs and guides our steps
From darkened human sense to Soul's clear light;
Up to the heavenly heights where angel thoughts
Exalt our view above the blackest night.
Oh, tired heart, take the ascending path
Out of the valley of distress and fear.
Each upward step, Truth-guarded, will reveal
The glory of Love's presence now and here.
