Today, it came into my mind.
A most beautiful hymn I remember singing in school assembly. It is the only hymn I remember and it reminds me of my Welsh ancestors of whom I am very proud.
Calon Lân
Do you know it? It is a most wondrous song with the most beautiful meaning. You may have heard it sung at a Welsh Rugby event or by a male voice choir.
I found a rousing rendition of Calon Lân performed by massed choirs and the Welsh symphony orchestra, arranged by BBC Cymru Wales on youtube.com – enjoy!
I also found an English translation at Felinfach.com along with the history of this hymn.
I don’t ask for a luxurious life
Calon Lân
the world’s gold or its fine pearls,
I ask for a happy heart,
an honest heart, a pure heart.
A pure heart full of goodness
Is fairer than the pretty lily,
None but a pure heart can sing,
Sing in the day and sing in the night.
If I wished for worldly wealth,
It would swiftly go to seed;
The riches of a virtuous, pure heart
Will bear eternal profit.
(Chorus)
Evening and morning, my wish
Rising to heaven on the wing of song
For God, for the sake of my Saviour,
To give me a pure heart.
Thank you to John Hurley Design for the wonderful dragon image.