When o'er the trodden paths of life

Verse 1

When, o'er the trodden paths of life, Backwards I turn mine eyes, What varied scenes, throughout the road, Awaken my surprise!

Verse 2

Thousands, to whom my natal hour Imparted vital breath, Just looked on life, and closed their eyes In the fast sleep of death.

Verse 3

Thousands, who climbed to manhood's stage; Safe through unnumbered snares; Traveled not far before they sunk Amidst its thorns and cares.

Verse 4

Followed through every changing stage, With goodness all my days, Deny me not a heart to love, A tongue to speak thy praise.

Verse 5

Then thousand thousand thanks to thee, My grateful lips shall give; And, while I make thy grace my trust, To thee alone I'll live.

Verse 6

Then thousand thousand thanks to thee, Echo along the road; O! may I join those endless songs, That fill thy blest abode.