We praise thee-if one rescued soul,
While the past year prolonged its flight,
Turned shuddering, from the poisonous bowl,
To health, and liberty, and light.
We praise thee-if one clouded home,
Where broken hearts, despairing, pined,
Behold the sire and husband come,
Erect, and in his perfect mind.
No more a weeping wife to mock,
Who on his arm in faith had leaned,
No more the trembling mind to shock,
And sink the father in the fiend.
Still give us grace, Almighty King!
Unwavering at our posts to stand,
'Till, grateful at thy shrine we bring
The tribute of a ransomed land.
John Pierpont
http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/new-year-s-hymn-2/
