by Ann Plato<\/p>\n
Teach me, O! Lord, the secret errors of my way,
\nTeach me the paths wherein I go astray,
\nLearn me the way to teach the word of love,
\nFor that’s the pure intelligence above.
\nAs well as learning, give me that truth forever–
\nWhich a mere worldly tie can never sever,
\nFor though our bodies die, our souls will live forever.
\nTo cultivate in every youthful mind,
\nHabitual grace, and sentiments refined.
\nThus while I strive to govern human heart,
\nMay I the heavenly precepts still impart;
\nOh! may each youthful bosom, catch the sacred fire,
\nAnd youthful mind to virtues throne aspire.
\nNow fifteen years their destined course have run,
\nIn fast succession round the central sun;
\nHow did the follies of that period pass,
\nI ask myself–are they inscribed in brass!
\nOh! Recollection, speed their fresh return,
\nAnd sure ’tis mine to be ashamed and mourn.
\n“What shall I ask, or what refrain to say?
\nWhere shall I point, or how conclude my lay?
\nSo much my weakness needs–so oft thy voice,
\nAssures that weakness, and confirms my choice.
\nOh, grant me active days of peace and truth,
\nStrength to my heart, and wisdom to my youth,
\nA sphere of usefulness–a soul to fill
\nThat sphere with duty, and perform thy will.”<\/p>\n
Public Domain \r\n\r\nSource: Ann Plato, Essays; Including Biographies and Miscellaneous Pieces, in Prose and Poetry. Hartford: 1841. (Printed for the Author)<\/pre>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Lines, Written Upon Being Examined In School Studies for the Preparation of a Teacher. by Ann Plato Teach me, O! Lord, the secret errors of my way, Teach me the paths wherein I go astray, Learn me the way to teach the word of love, For that’s the pure intelligence above. As well as learning, … Continue reading Lines, Written Upon Being Examined In School Studies for the Preparation of a Teacher.<\/span>