In darker hours we search for light A spark to loosen, to feel alright So much in this world is bent, untrue Hold what is near, and dear, and true We see the sorrow if we dare to stay Look past the smile, the brave display We hide our wounds and still press on From early dusk to rising dawn In darker hours we search for light A way to break loose, feel alive In darker hours we search for light A way to open, feel inside Nothing we chase in the everyday grey Can match the awe of choosing a better way To place compassion before your gain Is called naïve, a loss of restraint But offer care, a smile, a sign A moment given, yours and mine In acts so small, yet deeply true A different world comes into view In darker hours we search for light A way to break loose, feel alive In darker hours we search for light A way to open, feel inside I offer these lines of heart and mind I rhyme because it helps me find That thoughts with feeling carry weight As poets knew, and still create As Robert Burns once let love be shown In words that time has made its own: My love is like a red, red rose Newly sprung in June, My love is like a melody Sweetly played, in tune. In darker hours we search for light A way to breathe, to feel alright In darker hours we search for light A way to break loose, feel alive In darker hours we search for light Hold what is near — and dear — and right So much in this world is bent, untrue Still what is close can carry you In darker hours, remember this: To choose compassion is the gift