Father of every age,
Of every rolling sphere,
Help us to write a deathless page
Of truth, this dawning year!
Help us to humbly bow
To Thy all-wise behest—
Whate'er the gift of joy or woe,
Knowing Thou knowest best.
Aid our poor soul to sing
Above the tempest's glee;
Give us the eagle's fearless wing,
The dove's to soar to Thee!
All-merciful and good,
Hover the homeless heart!
Give us this day our daily food
In knowing what Thou art!
Swampscott, Mass., January 1, 1868.