Rise, Little Star

Rise, little star!
O'er the dusky hill,--
See the bright course open
Thou hast to fulfil.

Climb, little star!
Higher still and higher.
With a silent swiftness
And a pulse of fire.

Stand, little star!
On the peak of heaven;
But for one brief moment
Is the triumph given.

Sink, little star!
Yet make heaven bright,
Even while thou art sinking,
With thy gentle light.

Set, little star!
Gladly fade and die,
With the blush of morning
Coming up the sky.

Each little star
Crieth, Life, O man!
Should have one clear purpose
Shining round its span.