To A Young Bride

Dear little bride, as you stand tonight
At the door of a life so new
And look through the portals shining bright,
Do you know what is waiting for you?
Do you know that hidden from your sight,
Beyond that portal of rainbow hue,
There are things you have never dreamed of yet
Waiting there for you?

Tonight, as you look within that door
You see only rosy light,
And you think that your life will ever be
One journey of pure delight;
But under the bowers of roses red
And the altars of white and blue
A treacherous River of life flows fast
And has perils there for you

So, as you enter this new strange life
So full of wonderful things,
So eager to be the most wonderful wife,
Be prepared for the trials it brings.
For in the river of life you will find
The current is flowing strong
And there are rapids and rocks and reefs
And a chance for love's boat to go wrong.

So take with you courage, faith and love
To help steer your craft aright,
And seek of guidance from above
To guide through the darkest night.
For when two hearts are bound by love
Life's storms cannot destroy
And they will reach love's harbor bright
And live in peace and joy.