Per Pacem Ad Lucem

I DO not ask, O Lord, that life may be  
   A pleasant road;  
I do not ask that Thou wouldst take from me  
   Aught of its load;  
 
I do not ask that flowers should always spring
   Beneath my feet;  
I know too well the poison and the sting  
   Of things too sweet.  
 
For one thing only, Lord, dear Lord, I plead,  
   Lead me aright—  
Though strength should falter, and though heart should bleed—  
   Through Peace to Light.  
 
I do not ask, O Lord, that thou shouldst shed  
   Full radiance here;  
Give but a ray of peace, that I may tread
   Without a fear.  
 
I do not ask my cross to understand,  
   My way to see;  
Better in darkness just to feel Thy hand  
   And follow Thee.
 
Joy is like restless day; but peace divine  
   Like quiet night:  
Lead me, O Lord,—till perfect Day shall shine,  
   Through Peace to Light.