Before we rush from the Christmas holiday to New Year's Celebrations, before we begin any process of review of this year, let's take the time to enjoy the wonder of this day. This poem, an excerpt from "The Prelude"* by Wordsworth, is a reminder of the magnificence of nature all around us and including us, each day. Embedded in his perception is the idea of "a dedicated Spirit". That phrase holds deep meaning that is to be defined by your own heart. (Susan Nettleton)
Magnificent
The morning rose, in memorable pomp,
Glorious as e'er I had beheld--in front,
The sea lay laughing at a distance; near,
The solid mountains shone, bright as the clouds,
Grain-tinctured, drenched in empyrean light;
And in the meadows and the lower grounds
Was all the sweetness of a common dawn--
Dews, vapours, and the melody of birds,
And labourers going forth to till the fields.
Ah! need I say, dear Friend! that to the brim
My heart was full; I made no vows, but vows
Were then made for me; bond unknown to me
Was given, that I should be, else sinning greatly,
A dedicated Spirit. On I walked
In thankful blessedness, which yet survives.
* further excerpts can be found online on several sites, including PoemHunter