A flame divides, yet nothing lost,
It burns, but never counts the cost;
Expands the span by which it lives;
Each borrowed light becomes its kin
A circle bright begins within
The wax declines the spirit grows
Its heat renews its mercy glows;
The smaller flame the wider grace
The greater dark the calmer face
The hand that shares the heart that gives
No wealth can match this holy trade—
Of light exchanged of fear unmade
The wick consumes yet none deceived
Each spark reborn each heart relieved;
For giving burns yet multiplies—
Till night itself in mercy dies