Pioneer Journal

Nauvoo

“Today we left Nauvoo, the beautiful;

We saw the temple, towering stark and high,

Our empty houses, then turned to face the dull,

Western expanse of loneliness and sky.”

The words were written carefully and slow,

Each phrase is fashioned meaningful and clear,

Yet, now and then, a small blotch lets me know

The words were interrupted by a tear.

I read her journal over now and see

The gallant preparations for the West.

I understand her words, “God made man free

To worship. We shall yet find comfort, rest,

A spot where every one of us will dare

Kneel down in peace to say an honest prayer.”¹