The Jewish Mother

A STAR of guidance o’er Life’s troubled ocean,

A sunbeam flashing tempest-clouds in twain,

The wafted fragrance deepening, soul-emotion

The benediction won from heights of pain.

A voice familiar with melodious calling;

A solemn adjuration from on High;

A veiled and tender glory, earthward falling

From unseen altars, ’neath eternal sky.

Pathetic memories of a father’s blessing,

When thornless roses crowned the lifted head;

The gentle touch of mother-hands caressing,

Ere cypress paths to desert-wanderings led.

All-conquering joy of new-found inspiration,

That healing balm pours on the longing breast;

The life ennobles that in consecration

Keeps evermore the day of holy rest.