Happiness

THE SECRET OF HAPPINESS

by Burleigh

I followed happiness to make her mine, 

Past towering oak and swinging ivy vine. 

She fled, I chased, over slanting hill and dale, 

Over fields and meadows, in the purpling vale

Pursing rapidly over dashing stream, 

I scaled the dizzy cliffs where eagles scream; 

I traversed swiftly every land and sea, 

But always happiness eluded me. 

Exhausted, fainting, I pursued no more, 

But sank to rest upon the barren shore. 

One came and asked for food, and one for alms; 

I placed the bread and gold in bony palms; 

One came for sympathy, and one for rest; 

I shared with every needy one my best; 

When, lo! Sweet Happiness, with form divine, 

Stood by me, whispering softly, "I am thine."

KMG