Tribute to the 200 year anniversary of the birth of Florence Nightingale

Poetry tribute to Florence Nightingale (1820-1910) founder of modern nursing. This poem was published in the American Journal of Nursing, 1919. International nursing organizations will be paying tribute to her accomplished life, because she is the founder of the nursing profession.  

Angel of the Crimea by Minnie D. Wilbur published in the American Journal of Nursing, 1919

O Lady with the Lamp! Behold the glow,

That heavenly flame you kindled long ago,

Is sending now to every race and creed,

Help for the helpless, gifts for those in need.

That vital spark which woke in your brave soul

Burns on and on, an ever fadeless glow.

Years shall not dim its brightness, as they fly,

For time is naught to deeds that never die.

O pain of war! O joy of peace! No more

Shall smolder low that heavenly flame which bore

Aid for all future centuries, to bind

Our faith in God, our love for humankind.

My photo taken in London- Florence Nightingale's statue: