C.D. Warner, et al., comp.
The Library of the World’s Best Literature. An Anthology in Thirty Volumes. 1917.

Ednah Dow Littlehale Cheney (1824–1904)

AT first I prayed for Light:

Could I but see the way,

How gladly, swiftly would I walk

To everlasting day!

And next I prayed for Strength,

That I might tread the road

With firm, unfaltering feet, and win

The heavens’ serene abode.

And then I asked for Faith:

Could I but trust my God,

I’d live enfolded in his peace,

Though foes were all abroad.

But now I pray for Love:

Deep love to God and man;

A living love that will not fail,

However dark his plan;

And Light and Strength and Faith

Are opening everywhere!

God only waited for me till

I prayed the larger prayer.