The Poetry Corner

Contrasts

By Ella Wheeler Wilcox

I see the tall church steeples, They reach so far, so far, But the eyes of my heart see the world's great mart, Where the starving people are. I hear the church bells ringing Their chimes on the morning air; But my soul's sad ear is hurt to hear The poor man's cry of despair. Thicker and thicker the churches, Nearer and nearer the sky But alack for their creeds while the poor man's needs Grow deeper as years roll by.