  M My heart was like a flower once, That from its jewel-tinted cup The generous fragrance of its joy To all the world sent floating up. But now ’tis like a humming-bird, That in the cup his bright wing dips, And with most dainty selfishness Himself the choicest honey sips, With eager, thirsty, longing lips! And once my heart was like a gem, Set in a fair betrothal ring; Content to light the happy darks That shield love’s shy self-wondering. But now I think my heart is like The lady fair who wears the ring; Pressed closely to her lips at night With love’s mysterious wondering That hers should be the precious thing! And once my heart was like a nest, Where singing-birds have made their home; Set where the apple-boughs in bloom Fleck the blue air with flower-foam. But now it is itself a bird; And if it does not always sing, The Heavenly Father knows what thoughts,— Too strangely sweet for uttering,— |
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