Here, in the heart of the world,
Here, in the noise and the din,
Here, where our spirits were hurled
To battle with sorrow and sin,
This is the place and the spot
For knowledge of infinite things;
This is the kingdom where Thought
Can conquer the prowess of kings.
Wait for no heavenly life,
Seek for no temple alone;
Here, in the midst of the strife,
Know what the sages have known.
See what the Perfect Ones saw-
God in the depth of each soul,
God as the light and the law,
God as beginning and goal.
Earth is one chamber of Heaven,
Death is no grander than birth.
Joy in the life that was given,
Strive for perfection on earth.
Here, in the turmoil and roar,
Show what it is to be calm;
Show how the spirit can soar
And bring back its healing and balm.
Stand not aloof nor apart,
Plunge in the thick of the fight.
There in the street and the mart,
That is the place to do right.
Not in some cloister or cave,
Not in some kingdom above,
Here, on this side of the grave,
Here, should we labor and love.
(Ella Wheeler Wilcox)
More Poetry from Ella Wheeler Wilcox:
Ella Wheeler Wilcox Poems based on Topics: Love, Life, God, World, Soul, Light, Mind, Joy & Excitement, Death & Dying, Place, Thought & Thinking- A Fatal Impress (Ella Wheeler Wilcox Poems)
- A Baby In The House (Ella Wheeler Wilcox Poems)
- It Might Have Been (Ella Wheeler Wilcox Poems)
- A Fallen Leaf (Ella Wheeler Wilcox Poems)
- Custer: Book Second (Ella Wheeler Wilcox Poems)
- Custer: Book Third (Ella Wheeler Wilcox Poems)