I was taught this poem as a child and recited it many times over the years. It’s a beautiful motto I’ve come to live by. Hope this gets you over this hump day.
if with pleasure you are viewing
any work someone is doing
if you like them or you love them
tell them now
don’t withhold your approbation
till the parson makes oration
and they lie with snowy lilies on their brows
no matter how you shout it
they won’t really care about it
they won’t know how many teardrops you have shed
if you think some praise is due them
now’s the time to slip it to them
for they cannot read their tombstone when they’re dead
more than fame and more than money
is the comment kind and sunny
and the hearty, warm approval of a friend
for it gives to life a savor,
and it makes you stronger, braver
and it gives you heart and spirit to the end
if they earn your praise—bestow it,
if you like them let them know it
let the words of true encouragement be said
do not wait till life is over
and they’re underneath the clover
for they cannot read their tombstone when they’re dead
Borrowed from Berton Braley
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In creative solidarity, Dee
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Powerful and beautiful!
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Indeed it is Khaya!!! Cheers. Dee
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I am so appreciative of this poem. The words are ever so true. Give each other the love while they are alive. No need to say it when they are gone. This is beautiful. Thank you for helping us over the hump!
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You’re welcome Viv. So glad you appreciated this piece. I love this poem and its message.
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Oh how I love this, Dee! Thank you so much for sharing!❤
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You’re welcome goddess. It’s always been an inspiration for me. So glad you appreciate it!
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Love this poem and it’s powerful message
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Yeah. Its message is powerful indeed. And a message to adhere to. Glad you liked it.
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👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼
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