Father, to Thy kind love we owe All that is fair and good below; Bestower of the health that lies On tearless cheeks and cheerful eyes! | Giver of sunshine and of rain! Ripener of fruits on hill and plain! Fountain of light, that rayed afar, Fills the vast urns of sun and star! | Who send’st Thy storms and frosts to bind The plagues that rise to waste mankind; Then breathest, o’er the naked scene, Spring gales, and life, and tender green. | Yet deem we not that thus alone, Thy mercy and Thy love are shown; For we have learned, with higher praise, And holier names, to speak Thy ways. | In woe’s dark hour, our kindest stay! Sole trust when life shall pass away! Teacher of hopes that light the gloom Of death, and consecrate the tomb! | |