Haven of Heart’s Desire

 

And so He brings them to desired havens,

            And so, to havens of the heart’s desire.

The favouring breezes waiting ever onward,

            The serried waves before the prow retire.

The promontory beacon in the distance

            Draws nearer, burning as an altar fire.

 

They that go down unto the sea in ships

            Witness His wonders in the stormy deep

When winds lift up their craft on towering waves

            Or lower between mountainous billows steep,

In their distress they cry unto the Lord

            And quiet dawns as silently as sleep.

 

The storm becomes a placid peaceful calm,

            The waves are tranquil, mirroring, and still.

Their hearts are glad for quiet. And serene

            Desires of the haven hearts fulfil.

The harbour seems to race to meet their ship,

            Runs quickly to them how the haven’s hill.

 

And I am come to harbour long envisioned,

            And unto dreams that burn with silver fire.

You are the tranquil calm where I would anchor,

            Your love the weary voyage did inspire.

You are the port to which my sails are set,

            You are the haven of my heart’s desire.

 

–CHARLES GRANVILLE HAMILTON

 

Aberdeen

Missisipi

 

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