PAIN

PAIN

Pain stayed so long I said to her today

'I will not have you with me anymore,'

I stamped my foot and said, 'Be Gone !,'

And paused there, startled at the look she wore,

'I who have been your teacher--all you know

Of understanding, love and sympathy, and patience, I have taught you, shall I

go?'

She spoke the turth, this strange unwelcome guest;

I watched her leave, and knew that she was wise.

She left a heart grown tender in my cheast.

She left a far clear vision in my eyes,

She left a heart wanting in love.

I dried my tears, and lifted up a song,

Even for one who'd tortured me so long.