Per Pacem Ad Lucem

I do not ask, O Lord, that life may be
    A pleasant road;
  I do not ask that Thou wouldst take from me
    Aught of its load;

  I do not ask that flowers should always spring
    Beneath my feet;
  I know too well the poison and the sting
    Of things too sweet.

  For one thing only, Lord, dear Lord, I plead,
    Lead me aright--
  Though strength should falter, and though heart should bleed--
    Through Peace to Light.

  I do not ask, O Lord, that thou shouldst shed
    Full radiance here;
  Give but a ray of peace, that I may tread
    Without a fear.

  I do not ask my cross to understand,
    My way to see;
  Better in darkness just to feel Thy hand
    And follow Thee.

  Joy is like restless day; but peace divine
    Like quiet night:
  Lead me, O Lord,--till perfect Day shall shine,
    Through Peace to Light.
 

-- Adelaide Anne Procter