Rohilla Bonnington

Essay contemplating her afterlife

I think I'll not fear death but, hand in hand with God,

Cross over that imperceptible line that marks the boundary of this earthly realm

From higher sphere of shining stars - pellucid moon - and seen, wisp-veiled with bits of mist and dappling clouds that temper off its blazing glory from our feeble gaze.

All these, well-blended with atoms and elements as yet unsung, make up a mighty symphony of sight and sound.

x x x

My part beyond this life, I hope will be

Minutest point upon His smallest star, engendering joy and wonder in a little child -

Or fraction of the sun's rich ray, designed to warm an aching heart, or thaw a frozen breast -

Or dancing dot upon a moonbeam's ray, purveying love, surcease from pain, and blessed anodyne of sleep and rest.

Whatever the tiny particle of His great love, my part shall be in helping on earth's slow but sure advance to greater harmony I shall be glad. Now look not back, but out - far out -

And presently rejoice to see a smile on lips grown taut with pain,

Or hear the strings of one now mute terrestrial harp

Sing forth again - of Love and Truth, and God's great Harmony

'Tis this I hope - and am not now afraid.

Rolla Mathews