The gate of the year

Published on by John’s Postcards

And I said to the man who stood at the gate of the year:
“Give me a light that I may tread safely into the unknown.”
And he replied:
“Go out into the darkness and put your hand into the Hand of God.
That shall be to you better than light and safer than a known way.”
So I went forth, and finding the Hand of God, trod gladly into the night.
And He led me towards the hills and the breaking of day in the lone East.

Minnie Louise Haskins

To all our friends and followers – with very best wishes for a peaceful and healthy year in 2022

10 thoughts on “The gate of the year”

  4. My favourite poem.
    I first read this poem when it was given to me by a Dutchman named Cornelius, a young man studying to be a priest who became my unexpected friend. He wrote each verse by hand and gave it to me on our last meeting at his college. Such a long time ago.
    Thank you for reminding me of this kind young man.
    Happy New Year, John.

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply

    1. Thank you Sue. One of my favourites too. I first heard it read at a funeral service but I believe it became popular when King George VI quoted it in his Christmas broadcast in 1939. Just as relevant today as it was those 80+ years ago.

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply

      1. Absolutely, it was 1967 when Cornelius gave the poem to me. I was the babysitter for the curate’s family at our church which is how I first met this sweet and gentle priest who was on a visit.

        Liked by 1 person

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