1. In the first moments of my life,
You took me in your arms;
Since that day, dear Mother,
You protect me here.
To keep my innocence,
You put me in a sweet nest,
You saved my childhood
In the shade of a blessed cloister.
2. Later, in the days of my youth,
From Jesus I heard the call!...
In your ineffable tenderness,
You showed me Carmel.
“Come, my child, be generous,
You said to me gently;
Near me, you will be happy,
Come and immolate yourself for your Saviour. . . . . .
3. Close to you, O my tender Mother!
I have found peace of heart;
I don't want anything on earth anymore,
Jesus alone is all my happiness.
If sometimes I feel sadness,
The fear that comes to assail me,
Always, supporting my weakness,
Mother, you deign to bless me.
4. Grant me to be faithful
To my divine Spouse Jesus.
That one day her sweet voice calls me
To fly among the elect.
So, no more exile, no more suffering;
I will tell you again in Heaven
The song of my gratitude,
Loving Queen of Carmel!
July 16 1894
Dating: July 16, 1894
Recipient: Martha of Jesus
Thérèse offers this poem to Martha of Jesus for her birthday. Marthe was born in Giverville on July 16, which is very significant for a Carmelite! (Feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel). Thérèse delicately explores the life of this companion, who appreciates her to the point of asking not to leave the novitiate to remain under her direction (she made her profession on September 23, 1890).
