Examination

Before we close our eyes to-night,Oh, let us each these questions ask!Have we endeavored to do right,Nor thought our duty a hard task?Have we been gentle, lowly, meek,And the small voice of conscience heard?When passion tempted us to speak,Have we repressed the angry word?Have we with cheerful zeal obeyedWhat our kind parents bade us do?And not by word or action saidThe thing that was not strictly true?In hard temptation’s troubled hour,Oh! have we stopped to think and pray,[Pg 023]That God would please to give us powerTo chase the naughty thought away?Oh, Thou! who seest all my heart,Do Thou forgive and love me stillAnd unto me new strength impart,And make me love and do Thy will.

Form: Didactic Comments

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Book: Diverse Voices: The Poetry of Human Rights and the Pursuit of Peace