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Saturday, February 14, 2026

They also serve who only stand and wait -- Sonnet XVI

 John Milton (1608-1674)

When I consider how my light is spent,

Ere half my days, in this dark world and wide,

And that one talent which is death to hide,

Lodged with me useless, though my soul more bent


To serve therewith my Maker, and present

My true account, lest he returning chide,

'Doth God exact day-labourer, light denied?'

I fondly ask; but Patience to prevent


That murmur, soon replies, 'God doth not need

Either man's work or his own gifts; who best

Bear his mild yoke, they serve him best; his state

Is kingly.  Thousands at his bidding speed

And post o'er land and ocean without rest: 

They also serve who only stand and wait.'

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