Why did I not recognize Thee when first I opened my eyes on the earth?
Why did I not respond to Thee when I heard Thy enchanting voice?
Why did I not feel Thy gentle hand when Thou didst caress my face?
Why did I not cling to Thee, Beloved, when Thou lovingly didst kiss my lips?
When I began to look for Thee, in the twinkling of an eye Thou didst disappear.
When I started in Thy pursuit, Thou didst move away from me still farther.
When I called Thee aloud in my distress, Thou didst not hear my soul's bitter cry.
Cross-legged I sat in silence; then alone I heard Thy call.