The End

 The End
by Annie R. Johnson

Dear, suffering soul, bear up!
The pain can not be long!
Across the chasm of our griefs
I cry to thee, "Be strong!"

Yes, though within the dark
Woe's brink we both have trod;
As pilgrim's lost, we call to each
These words, "Hope thou in God!"

The end lies just before;
Mayhap, with glad surprise,
Thou soon shall see the way made clear,
Before thy wondering eyes!

Lo! even now his light
Strikes through dim forest ways!
Beyond! Beyond! Fly, bleeding feet,
To gain the "Gates of Praise!"

No more! no more to weep!
(Oh, clasp the full, rich joy,)
Thy hunted soul shall rest! yes, rest,
Where naught can e'er annoy.

Then, cheer thee, dear, sad heart,
The end lies just before!
Though dark the forest maze doth seem,
He leads! Canst ask for more?