To the Moon

moon, image © the author

Oh gracious moon, that lamps our silent hours,
Embodies Night’s kind benison of light,
That treads the path blazed when the sun is white
But turns it to a bliss of star-filled bowers,

What have you seen of love and of delight,
And brightened joys with silver moonbeams fair?
What have you seen of sorrow and despair,
And strove to soften grief with silver light?

How often have I longed your gentle silver linger here?
Give me your blessing, Moon; the heavens pale and Day is near.