The fall of ev'n such short-lived things

To us some sorrow brings.

[41]

And yet, plant, bird, and fly

Feel no such hidden fire.

Happy they live; and die

Happy, with no desire.

They in their brief life have fulfill'd

All Nature in them will'd.

And were we also made

Of like terrestrial mould

We should not be afraid,

Nor feel the grave so cold;

But, all oblivious of our fate,

Live sweetly out our date.

For the great mother loves

Her children far too well;

These longings that she moves

Their own fulfilment tell:

She would not burden us with aught

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