The Beatific Vision

Gilbert Keith Chesterton (1874–1936)

Through what fierce incarnations, furledIn fire and darkness, did I go,Ere I was worthy in the worldTo see a dandelion grow?

Well, if in any woes or warsI bought my naked right to be,Grew worthy of the grass, nor gaveThe wren, my brother, shame for me.

But what shall God not ask of himIn the last time when all is told,Who saw her stand beside the hearth,The firelight garbing her in gold?