Lullaby for Mirjam (after Richard Beer-Hofmann, 1893)

Lullaby for Mirjam Verse 1 Sleep, my child, the day is done, See how softly sets the sun. Crimson fades behind the hill, You know nothing yet of still Suns that sink and lives that wane— Many dawns are yours again. Sleep, my child, my child, sleep on. Verse 2 Sleep, my child, the evening sighs, Who can tell from where it flies? Hidden are the paths we roam, Yours and mine—no map, no home. Blind we wander, each alone, Not one can bear another’s stone. Sleep, my child, my child, sleep on. Verse 3 Sleep, my child, don’t heed my word, Sense for me—but you hear blurred Sounds like wind across the sea, Murmurs without memory. What I gather fades with me, None can pass eternity. Sleep, my child, my child, sleep on. Verse 4 Are you sleeping, Mirjam dear? We are shores where through us here Flows the blood of those before, Restless, proud forevermore. All live on in you and me— You are their eternity. Mirjam, my life, sleep peacefully. Verse 5 Sleep, my child, a truth I share, Worldly meanings fade to air. Lift your heart to skies above, Seek the Word that speaks of love. Read of JESUS, gentle guide, Written for us, crucified. Sleep, my child, in faith abide.