[Captain Rhino]

On His Blindness

by John Milton

When I consider how my light is spent
Ere half my days in this dark world and wide,
And that one Talent which is death to hide
Lodged with me useless, though my soul more bent
To serve therewith my Maker, and present
My true account, lest He returning chide,
"Doth God exact day-labour, light denied?"
I fondly ask. But Patience, to prevent
That murmur, soon replies, "God doth not need
Either man's work or his own gifts. Who best
Bear his mild yoke, they serve him best. His state
Is kingly: thousands at his bidding speed,
And post o'er land and ocean without rest;
They also serve who only stand and wait."

Here's a link to the song's words: http://theyalsoserve.expage.com/id13.html

[xzins]

Thank you so much, Cpt Rhino.

Link to the songwriter's page....Words to: They Also Serve"

[The Grammarian]

It's known in most anthologies of Milton's work as "When I Consider How My Light Is Spent." He's easily my favorite poet, and that he's being quoted--even if inadvertently--by a modern singer is very cool. Not many poets of centuries past whose work still resounds with those alive today.