GRATITUDE

Oh, Gratitude, thou sacred boon!

Thy presence cheers the darkest hour,

And gilds the darkest scenes of life,

With light that never fades or dies.

When sickness clouds the brow of health,

When sorrow darkens o'er the mind,

Thy gentle voice can soothe and heal,

And banish grief and care behind.

When friends desert thee in thy grief,

When foes assail thee with their spite,

Thy love can still their cruel power,

And make thee feel secure and right.

When life's dark shadows gather around,

And death's cold hand is drawing nigh,

Thy presence will not leave thee, but

Will cheer thee to the gates of the sky.

Then, Gratitude, thou sacred boon,

I'll cherish thee till life is o'er,

And when I reach the realms of bliss,

I'll praise thee evermore.