Heaven Is Not Reached at a Single Bound

Heaven is not reached at a single bound,

But we build the ladder by which we rise

From the lowly earth to the vaulted skies,

And we mount to its summit round by round.

I count this thing to be grandly true:

That a noble deed is a step toward God,—

Lifting the soul from the common clod

To a purer air and a broader view.