Chapter 6 6

76 I have cowered timidly in the shelter of safety; but now, when the waves of happiness push my heart to its crest, it clings to the cruel rocks of its troubles. I used to sit alone in a corner of my house, thinking: There is no room for any guest in this narrow room; but now, when the door is swung open by unexpected joy, I find that there is room not only for you, but for the whole world. I used to walk lightly, guarding my groomed, scented face; but now, when a whirlwind of happiness sweeps me down in the dust, I'll roll merrily on the ground at your feet like a child . 77 The world was once yours and will always be yours.

Because you have no want, my lord, your riches will bring you little joy. Your world seems to be empty. Therefore, through slow time, you give me what is yours and win your kingdom in me without ceasing. Day after day, you buy something out of my heart, and you find that your love shapes my life. 78 You gave your song to the bird, and the bird gave you back your song. You only gave me my voice, but you demanded more from me, so I have to sing. You made your winds nimble and light, so they run swift and light for you.But you have made my hands heavy to lift, and lightened myself, so that at last I can serve you lightly and without restraint.

You created your land and filled the shadows with patches of afterglow. You stopped there, leaving me with empty hands to build your paradise in the dust. You are giving to all beings, but you are only asking for me. The fruits of my life ripen in the sun and rain until the harvest is greater than your sowing, filling your heart with joy, O lord of the golden barn. 79 Don't make me pray to be safe from danger, let me face it without fear. Don't make me plead for pain's cessation, but let me have a heart that conquers pain. Don't make me seek allies in the battle of life, make me fight with all my might.

Don't let me yearn for salvation in anxiety and fear, but let me hope for patience to win freedom. Promise me that I will not be made a coward, to feel your grace only in success; but let me feel the grip of your hands in failure. 80 You know yourself not when you are alone, Nor need an urgent call be sent when the wind blows from shore to shore. When I come, you wake up, and the sky is full of rays of light, just like blooming flowers. You bloomed my life among the flowers, and rocked me to sleep in the cradle of various shapes; you hid me in death, and found me in life. I'm here, your heart is ups and downs, mixed with sorrow and joy.

You touch me and I feel the vibration of love. But a shyness has clouded my eyes, and a twinkle of fear has shone in my breast; my face is veiled, and I can't help sobbing softly when I can't see you. However, I know that in your heart, there is a bottomless longing to meet me. It knocks on the door day after day along with the morning glow, and calls endlessly at my door.