For Heather, One Year Old

This turning earth of ours has brought again

To hearts that have congealed with winter’s chill,

To roots that have been lying deep and still,

The promise of the spring in hill and plain

With warming sunshine and with gentle rain.

And though to us as to the plain and hill

Is shown that Nature doth her pledge fulfil,

We are most conscious of our unearned gain

In pure and infant loveliness. One year

Is she to-day who came into our home

To add fresh fuel to our altar-fire

Of love domestic with her presence dear.

One year! On how swift feet the months have come

Since we were blessed with this fulfilled desire!

 

8.2.39