The Sage

I do not see the lightning’s flash, Nor hear the thunder’s din; What though the storms about me crash-- My refuge is within.

Though every evil stands confest, And every pleasure flies, I bear a world within my breast, A light within my eyes.

Of every fount from out the earth I, too, have drunk my fill, And all the joys I count of worth Become my own at will.

Though I have never loved a maid, Love’s heights I may ascend; Though no friend’s hand my own has stayed, I still can pledge my friend.

From good and bad alike I draw Security of soul; Naught happens but becomes a law To strengthen my control.

No passions ever rock my heart, I know not fear nor hate; A peace in which all worlds have part Encompasses my fate.

I dread not any form of wrath, I hate not any sin; Whatever grief assail my path, It cannot come within.

For there secure my spirit reigns, Serene amid unrest, Since all that Life or Death contains I hold within my breast.