How Can I Keep from Singing?

My life goes on in endless song

Above earth's lamentation

I hear the real though far off hymn

That hails a new creation

Through all the tumult and the strife

I hear its music ringing

It sounds an echo in my soul

How can I keep from singing?

While though the tempest loudly roars

I hear the truth it liveth

And though the darkness 'round me close

Songs in the night it giveth

No storm can shake my inmost calm

While to that rock I'm clinging

Since love is lord of heaven and earth

How can I keep from singing?

When tyrants tremble in their fear

And hear their death knell ringing

When friends rejoice both far and near

How can I keep from singing?

In prison cell and dungeon vile

Our thoughts to them are ringing

When friends by shame are undefiled

How can I keep from singing?