KIND TO EVERYTHING.

SOFTLY, softly, little sister, Touch those gayly-painted wings; Butterflies and moths, remember, Are such very tender things. Softly, softly, little sister, Twirl your limber hazel twig; Little hands may harm a nestling Thoughtlessly, as well as big. Gently stroke the purring pussy, Kindly pat the friendly dog; Let your unmolesting mercy Even spare the toad or frog. Wide is God’s great world around you: Let the harmless creatures live; Do not mar their brief enjoyment, Take not what you cannot give. Let your heart be warm and tender— For the mute and helpless plead; Pitying leads to prompt relieving, Kindly thought to kindly deed.