There are loyal hearts, there are spirits brave,
There are souls that are pure and true;
Then give to the world the best you have.
And the best will come back to you.
Give love, and love to your life will flow,
And strength in your inmost needs;
Have faith, and a score of hearts will show
Their faith in your work and deeds.
Give truth, and your gifts will be paid in kind,
And song a song will meet;
And the smile which is sweet will surely find
A smile that is just as sweet.
Give pity and sorrow to those who mourn;
You will gather in flowers again
The scattered seeds from your thought outborne,
Though the sowing seemed in vain.
For life is the mirror of king and slave,
'Tis just what we are and do;
Then give to the world the best you have
And the best will come back to you.
--Madeline S. Bridges.