Cup of Life

I’ve stood on the shores of life and watched the tides roll by
I’ve drunk from the cup of life, but never drained it dry.
I’ve wept with the widow’s tears and with the orphan too.
I’ve smiled at the rising sun and I will smile for you.

For there upon the shores of life a castle mighty stands
And if you look within your heart, life’s cup is in your hands.
The tears we weep will fill its depth – but never overflow
Because the smiles of humankind will always come and go.

I’ve stood on the shores of life and counted up the cost.
I’ve turned down the cup of life for all that has been lost
And all my tears can never purge the stains of hurt and grief
And all my smiles can ever bring is hope of some relief.

Stand with me on the shores of life and let me hold your hand.
Drink with me from the cup of life and feel it’s burning brand
And all the tears we ever weep we’ll catch within its bowl
And then our smiles will turn them wine and heal us to the soul.

E.M. Swift-Hook