Today and Tomorrow

By Ruth Savage Hilton

I walked with a youthful Gleaner-girl,
Loved her flashing eyes and each golden curl,
Heard her laugh and sing, and knew she dreamed
Of the life and love the future would bring.
But behind her quick, impulsive charm
I felt a need, by a clinging arm.
For there were left some songs unsung,
The Gleaner is restless – when life is young.

I walked with a Gleaner-girl grown old,
Found silvery streaks in the curls of gold.
Broken dreams she had learned to mend
And she loved the “way” to each day’s end,
And her laughter – it was sweeter still,
For she’d followed Truth and the Father’s will.
Aye, more beautiful than youth foretold
Is life – for a Gleaner-girl, when old.

(1951)