To the Stargazer

Stars breathe light like fire shed in oblivion,

like warmth breeding hope in nowhere,

like the universe showing care,

majesty, love, to an Earth’s eight billion.

Far distant those dots of gold outsum space,

their country of infinite black;

no vast super-distance in lack

for those beautiful bright lanterns to grace.

What can I say to the mind wandering Heaven?

Who can gaze and not mark the marvel,

who marvels without hopes to marshal,

and who marshals hopes that would be bereaven?

Gaze on then, stargazer, and dwell in awe,

no distance keeps their fire from man,

no man keeps them at distant ban—

eyes are meant to be set on Heaven’s store.