Where stalked the spectre of the yet-to-be.
While terror bade my faith and courage flee
I waited for the atom's deadly flare.
I visioned a chaotic dying earth
Wearing the sackcloth in its misery.
Then came a flashing from Eternity
And eagle-pinioned hope achieved rebirth
I saw a giant slave with gentleness
Working our farms and mines; whose touch will bring
Freedom from toil and pain ... and give the stars
To man, his master, by his power to bless,
The strength of Atlas in his whispering.
I walk with faith beyond fear's prison-bars.
Midwest Chaparral
Third in Citrine Contest
