The Two Temples

A Builder builded a temple, 

He wrought it with grace and skill; 

Pillars and groins and arches 

All fashioned to work his will. 

Men said, as they saw its beauty, "It shall never know decay; 

Great is thy skill, O Builder!

 

Thy fame shall endure for aye." 

  A Mother builded a temple With loving and infinite care, 

Planning each arch with patience, 

Laying each stone with prayer. None praised her unceasing efforts, 

None knew of her wondrous plan, 

For the temple the Mother builded 

Was unseen by the eyes of man.

 

  Gone is the Builders temple, 

Crumpled into the dust; 

Low lies each stately pillar, 

Food for consuming rust, 

  But the temple the Mother builded 

Will last while ages roll, 

For that beautiful unseen temple 

 Was a child's immortal soul.

-Hattie Vose Hall