BENISONS,
HAVE a tear for the wretched, a smile for the glad,
For the weary applause, and excuse for the sad;
Some help for the needy, some pity for those
Who stray from the path where true happiness flows.
Have a laugh for the child in her play at thy feet;
Have respect for the aged, and pleasantly greet
The stranger that seeketh a shelter from thee;
Have a covering to spare if he naked should be.
Have a hope in thy sorrow, a calm in thy joy;
Have a work that is worthy thy life to employ.
And ah! Above all things on this side the sod,
Have peace with thy conscience and peace with thy God.