Although she died more than 120 years ago, celebrated Mormon poet Eliza R. Snow continues to capture the heart of Mormon believers. Born in Massachusetts in 1805, she joined the church in 1835 and moved to Kirtland, Ohio. Eliza was devoted to the gospel and used her literary talent to teach, testify and record important events. The poems reproduced here are from her first published book, Poems: Religious, Political, Historical, printed in 1856. In this insightful poem, Sister Snow values Peace of Conscience as the greatest contributor to personal happiness. No matter what challenges or opposition we may face, no matter what worldly honors or riches we may or may not obtain, regardless of the opinions of strangers or loved ones, if our conscience whispers "all is well" then we have a claim on true happiness.
The noblest, proudest joys that this
World's favor can dispense,
Are far inferior to the bliss
Of conscious innocence.
The joy that in the bosom flows,
No circumstance can bind;
It is a happiness that knows
No province but the mind.
It makes the upright soul rejoice,
With weight of ills opprest,
To hear the soothing, still small voice
Low whispering in the breast.
The favor of the mighty God,
The favor of His Son,
The Holy Spirit shed abroad,
The hope of life to come,
Are higher honors, richer worth,
Surpassing all reward--
Than kings and princes of the earth
Have taken or conferr'd.
And when, in Christ, the spirit finds
That sweet, that promis'd rest,
In spite of every power that binds,
We feel that we are blest.
Though vile reproach its volumes swell,
And friends withdraw their love;
If conscience whispers, "All is well,"
And God and heaven approve;
We'll triumph over every ill,
And hold our treasure fast;
And stand at length on Zion's hill,
Secure from every blast.