The Gift of Exaltation

Precious is every hour with you,
Under whatever sky; in all
Seasons, weathers, places, rooms-with-roses,
And walks along the Palisades.

Swift is thought like light of day,
And swift the vivid thoughts that pass
Between us, glowing sparks illuming
The darkling labyrinth that is man's mind.

Life-giving the sun, and gracious-shining,
And likewise you, his truest daughter,
New beauty bringing to the world,
Raising banners of joy in human hearts.

Sweet the remembrance of fair women,
Lovely their faces and their forms;
Yet none so sweet in memory as you,
Deep-hidden, priceless treasure of the soul.

O slender stalk of budding flower,
O slim white birch so gently swaying,
O delicate spiral of fragrant smoke,
O golden, traceried leaf earth-dancing,

O grace in every mood and motion!
The sky-blue eyes so gay defying;
The autumn-auburned crown of hair,
The voice as if Beauty's self were speaking.

And we who've known your genius,
And the spell of your magic power,
Are so quickened in spirit and mind
We proudly walk transfigured then for life,

Feeling no evil can touch us now;
Fearing nothing in life or death;
Carrying within and down the years
The gift of exaltation you have given.

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