Because I have given my heart
To the joyance of living,
Its lords have given me life
Past their measure of giving.

Because I have given my soul
To the rapture of gladness,
They have taught me the simples of earth
For the healing of sadness.

Because I have given my days
To the seeking of knowledge,
They have opened the doors for me
Of the wilderness college.

They have opened my eyes to behold
And my senses to love
More than the careless perceive
Or the learned can prove.

Because I have given my years
To the service of beauty,
They have given me wonder and light
Without limit or duty.

Because I have followed their trail,
often faint yet unswerving,
They have given me guides in the way
Beyond all deserving.

 ~ William Bliss Carman

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