NOW, the sowing and the weeping,

Now, the pruning, sharp, unsparing, Scattered blossom, bleeding shoot: Afterward, the plenteous bearing Of the Master’s pleasant fruit.

Now, the long and toilsome duty, Stone by stone to carve and bring; Afterward, the perfect beauty Of the palace of the King.

Now, the spirit conflict-riven, Wounded heart, unequal strife; Afterward, the triumph given, And the victor’s crown of life.

Now, the training, strange and lowly, Unexplained and tedious now; Afterward, the service holy, And the Master’s, ‘Enter thou.’