Hymn for Arbor Day by Samuel F. Smith,
the author of "My Country Tis of Thee," and to be sung to the same tune.
Joy for the sturdy trees,
Fanned by each fragrant breeze,
Lovely they stand!
The songbirds o'er them trill;
They shade each tinkling rill;
They crown each swelling hill;
Lowly or grand.
Plant them by stream and way,
Plant them where the children play
And toilers rest.
In every verdant vale,
On every sunny swale—
Whether to grow or fail,
God knoweth best.
Select the strong, the fair;
Plant them with earnest care;
No toil is vain.
Plant in a fitter place,
Where, like a lovely face,
Let in some sweeter grace,
Change may prove gain.
God will His blessing send,
All things on Him depend,
His loving care
Clings to His leaf and flower,
Like ivy to its tower,
His presence and His power
Are everywhere.
