What I Wanted

Ah, this is what I wanted, And this is what I got,

Ah, this is what I wanted,  And this is what I got,
To be a quiet poet, In my own quiet spot.

But oh that I had hungered For things of greater worth,
That I had longed and panted To bring a soul to birth.

‘Tis those who thirst and hunger Whose wishes are fulfilled;
‘Tis those who pray and labour Who find that they are skilled.

But oh how oft we settle For paltry little goals,
When he with greatest wisdom Is he that winneth souls.

Nita Brainard