MAN'S LIMITATIONMan says that He is jealous,Man says that He is wise,Man says that He is watchingFrom His throne beyond the skies.But perchance the arch above usIs one great mirror's span,And the Figure seen so dimlyIs a vast reflected man.If it is love that gave usA thousand blossoms bright,Why should that love not save usFrom poisoned aconite?If this man blesses sunshineWhich sets his fields aglow,Shall that man curse the tempestThat lays his harvest low?If you may sing His praisesFor health He gave to you,What of this spine-curved cripple,Shall he sing praises too?If you may justly thank HimFor strength in mind and limb,Then what of yonder weakling —Must he give thanks to Him?Ah dark, too dark, the riddle!The tiny brain too small!We call, and fondly listen,For answer to that call.There comes no word to tell usWhy this and that should be,Why you should live with sorrow,And joy should live with me.
Man says that He is jealous,Man says that He is wise,Man says that He is watchingFrom His throne beyond the skies.But perchance the arch above usIs one great mirror's span,And the Figure seen so dimlyIs a vast reflected man.If it is love that gave usA thousand blossoms bright,Why should that love not save usFrom poisoned aconite?If this man blesses sunshineWhich sets his fields aglow,Shall that man curse the tempestThat lays his harvest low?If you may sing His praisesFor health He gave to you,What of this spine-curved cripple,Shall he sing praises too?If you may justly thank HimFor strength in mind and limb,Then what of yonder weakling —Must he give thanks to Him?Ah dark, too dark, the riddle!The tiny brain too small!We call, and fondly listen,For answer to that call.There comes no word to tell usWhy this and that should be,Why you should live with sorrow,And joy should live with me.