Lead, Kindly Light
Cardinal John Henry Newman (1801–1890)
Lead, kindly Light, amid the encircling gloom,
Lead Thou me on!
The night is dark, and I am far from home—
Lead Thou me on!
Keep Thou my feet; I do not ask to see
The distant scene—one step enough for me.
I was not ever thus, nor prayed that Thou
Shouldst lead me on.
I loved to choose and see my path; but now,
Lead Thou me on!
I loved the garish day, and, spite of fears,
Pride ruled my will: remember not past years.
So long Thy power hath blessed me, sure it still
Will lead me on,
O'er moor and fen, o'er crag and torrent, till
The night is gone;
And with the morn those angel faces smile
Which I have loved long since, and lost awhile.
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'Love is embracing all and loving especially the unlovables.'
Newman is one of the most intellectual essayists I've read. his essays on university and dogmas changed my perception about the church and how should they run catholic institutions based on reasons and faith.
ReplyDeletelove the prayer. St. John Newman- cardinal, doctor of the church!
so really had a study on him?
ReplyDeletei have not read much on his works. but this poem alone is so good enough to bring me into a reflection of the 'Light', again and again. it radiates the holiness of such a man.