QUIETNESS
I would be quiet, Lord, Nor tease, nor fret; Not one small need of mine Wilt Thou forget.
I am not wise to know What most I need; I dare not cry too loud Lest Thou shouldst heed:
Lest Thou at length shouldst say, “Child, have thy will; As thou hast chosen, lo! Thy cup I fill!”
What I most crave, perchance Thou wilt withhold, As we from hands unmeet Keep pearls, or gold;
As we, when childish hands Would play with fire, Withhold the burning goal Of their desire.
Yet choose Thou for me—Thou Who knowest best; This one short prayer of mine Holds all the rest!