Supported from a ruinous collapse
Or helpless flexion, by a spinous pile
Rigid as oak, yet flexile as the stem of the nodding flower.
Within, a nest of wonders, separate tasks
Each organ faithfully performing, still
From day to day harmoniously smooth
And uncomplaining, but for hindrances
Or ruinous urgence. Thou hast wisely said,
Melodious singer of old Israel,
"I am fearfully and wonderfully made."