"Class Stand and Recite..."

I have fond memories of the words in the title of this post. My high school English teacher used them frequently, especially when she wanted the entire class to recite a poem or verb list. I learned Crossing the Bar in one of her classes. I can almost hear her reciting it--with excellent expression and enunciation.  This morning that sweet lady crossed the bar and is now home in Heaven. My heart is heavy for her family, especially her husband, but at the same time, I am excited for her. Her love for Christ was evident in her life and now she is rejoicing in His presence.  Her signature smile is most likely a little bit bigger now that her journey is complete. 

Crossing the Bar 

~Alfred Lord Tennyson~

Sunset and evening star, 

And one clear call for me!

And may there be no moaning of the bar,

When I put out to sea,

But such a tide as moving seems asleep,

Too full for sound and foam,

When that which drew from out the boundless deep

Turns again home.

Twilight and evening bell,

And after that the dark!

And may there be no sadness of farewell,

When I embark;

For tho' from out our bourne of Time and Place

The flood may bear me far,

I hope to see my Pilot face to face

When I have crost the bar.