PRAYER TO THE MOTHER

Woman . . .

Who watched through the world
through the black night
before the dawn of love-

Who bore Peace in your womb
and dread in your heart
on the road to Bethlehem-

Who wove joy into the stars
and light into the night
from a bed of straw-

Who held love in your arms
and fear in your breast
on the dark way to Egypt-

Who gave your Son for our sons
and your heart 
for the hearts of men-

Eve's own redeemer.  . . .
Mother of the son . . .
Mother . . .
  Make me to love.

			Lucille Hamilton