Yesterday, Today, and Forever

I thank Thee, God, that I have lived in this great world and known its many joys; The song of the birds, the strong sweet scent of hay and cooling breezes in the secret dusk, the flaming sunsets at the close of the day, hills, and the lonely, heather-covered moors, music at night, and moonlight on the sea, the beat of waves upon the rocky shore and wild, white spray, flung high in ecstasy: The faithful eyes of dogs, and treasured books. The love of kin and fellowship of friends, and all that makes life dear and beautiful. I thank Thee, too, that there has come to me a little sorrow and, sometimes, defeat, a little heartache and loneliness that comes with parting, and the word, "Goodbye," dawn breaking after dreary hours of pain, when I discovered that night's gloom must yield and morning light break through to me again. Because of these and other blessings poured unasked upon my wondering head, because I know that there is yet to come an even richer and more glorious life, and most of all, because Thine only Son once sacrificed life's loveliness for me--I thank Thee, God, that I have lived. 

~Elizabeth, Countess of Craven, England (1750-1828)