John Greenleaf Whittier, (1807-1892), American Poet, Reformer, Author Quotes
For of all sad words of tongue or pen, the saddest are these: "It might have been!
No longer forward nor behind I look in hope or fear; but grateful, take the good I find, the best of now and here.
Every chain that spirits wear crumbles in the breadth of prayer.
Who fathoms the Eternal Thought? Who talks of scheme and plan? The Lord is God! He needeth not The poor device of man.
Through the dark and stormy night Faith beholds a feeble light Up the blackness streaking; Knowing God's own time is best, In a patient hope I rest For the full day-breaking!
Reason's voice and God's, Nature's and Duty's, never are at odds.
Beauty seen is never lost; God's colors all are fast.
O time and change -- with hair as gray as was my sire's that winter day, how strange it seems, with so much gone of life and love, to still live on!
Clothe with life the weak intent, let me be the thing I meant.
For of all sad words of tongue or pen, the saddest are these: It might have been!.