STRIVE FOR THE BEST.

'Tis better to give a kindly word Than ever so hard a blow, To know we have by kindness stirr'd The man who was our foe; To feel we have a good intent, Whatever he may feel— That gentleness with us is meant To make the old wounds heal. 'Tis better to give our wealth away Than let our neighbors want, To help them in their needful day, While they are weak and gaunt; A kindly deed brings kindly thought In hamlet and in city; A little help, we have been taught, Is worth a world of pity. 'Tis better to work and slave and toil, Than lie about and rust; An idle man upon the soil Is one of the very worst. He eats the bread that others earn, And lifts his head so high, As if it was not his concern How others toil'd, or why. 'Tis better to have an humble heart, Living in faith and trust, To act an ever upward part, Remembering we are dust; To let the streams of life run past, Beloved and lovingly, Until we reach in joy at last The great eternal sea.