If I were a voice, a persuasive voice, That could travel the wide world through, I would fly on the beams of the morning light, And speak to men with a gentle might, And tell them to be true.
I would fly, I would fly over land and sea, Wherever a human heart might be, Telling a tale, or singing a song, In praise of the right and in blame of the wrong: I would fly, I would fly, I would fly over land and sea.
2. If I were a voice, a consoling voice, I would fly on the wings of the air ; The homes of sorrow and guilt I'd seek, And calm and truthful words I'd speak, To save them from despair. [town, I would fly, I would fly o'er the crowded And drop like the happy sunlight down Into the hearts of suffering men, And teach them to look up again : I would fly, I would fly, I would fly o'er the crowded town.
3. If I were a voice, a convincing voice, I would travel with the wind, And wherever I saw the nations torn By warfare, jealousy, spite or scorn, Or hatred of their kind,
I would fly, I would fly on the thunder-crash, And into their blinded bosoms flash : Then with their evil thoughts subdued, I'd teach them Christian brotherhood : I would fly, I would fly, I would fly on the thunder-crash.
4. If I were a voice, an immortal voice, I would fly the earth around ; And wherever man to his idols bowed, I'd publish in notes both long and loud The Gospel's joyful sound. I would fly, I would fly on the wings of day,
Proclaiming peace on my world-wide way, Bidding the saddened earth rejoice â If I were a voice, an immortal voice, I would fly, I would fly, I would fly on the wings of day.