A Verse by Mary Baker Eddy (1895)
The work presents a poetic exploration of the relationship between humanity and the divine, emphasizing themes of guidance, protection, and spiritual growth. It is structured in two sections, addressing both children and adults, reflecting a nurturing and inclusive approach to spirituality. In the first section, the speaker addresses "Father-Mother God," invoking a sense of divine parental care. The imagery of sleep and guidance suggests a desire for safety and direction in life's journey. The repetition of "Up to Thee" signifies a yearning for closeness to the divine, highlighting the importance of faith and trust in a higher power. The second section shifts focus to "Big Children," representing adults or those on a more mature spiritual path. The language remains tender, with an emphasis on seeking goodness and embodying qualities such as patience and meekness. The phrase "Be it slow or fast" acknowledges the varied pace of spiritual development, reinforcing the idea that the journey toward divine understanding is personal and unique. Overall, the work encapsulates a vision of spiritual aspiration, encouraging readers to cultivate a relationship with the divine characterized by love, trust, and a commitment to personal growth. The dual address to both children and adults underscores the universality of these themes, inviting all to seek a deeper connection with the divine presence.
By Mary Baker Eddy · First published 1895 · Genre: Religious Poetry, Children's Literature, Inspirational Literature · 107 words
First lines
_Mother's New Year Gift to the Little Children_
Father-Mother God, Loving me, -- Guard me when I sleep; Guide my little feet Up to Thee.
_To the Big Children_
Father-Mother good, lovingly Thee I seek, -- Patient, meek, In the way Thou hast, -- Be it slow or fast, Up to Thee.
What this Textopian page supports
A Verse is listed on Textopian as a poem by Mary Baker Eddy, dated 1895 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Mary Baker Eddy
- Date: 1895 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Religious Poetry, Children's Literature, Inspirational Literature, Spiritual Literature, Lyrical Poetry
- Length: 107 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Religious Poetry — The work expresses themes of spirituality and divine guidance, characteristic of religious poetry.
- Children's Literature — The content is directed towards children, using simple language and themes of care and guidance.
- Inspirational Literature — The verses aim to inspire faith and trust in a higher power, aligning with inspirational themes.
- Spiritual Literature — The focus on the relationship with God and spiritual growth places it within spiritual literature.
Tags
Poetry · Spiritual · Philosophical · Inspirational · Meditative · Reflective · Personal · Emotional · Introspective · Existential · Psychological · Symbolic