How shall we plan life’s temple? With a height divine,
Wherein rare workmanship and worth combine;
Or low and rambling, that the prisoned soul
May trace no semblance of the wondrous whole,
To which its hopes so eagerly aspire?
We can but fashion what we most admire.
How shall we plan life’s temple? By design complete,
Which on the world’s highway we fain would meet;
Then ere Night dons her star-encrusted veil
To silent journey over hill and dale,
The dream of youth, at least, may proudly stand—
An ideal structure in an ideal land.
How shall we build life’s temple? Build it stone on stone
And ever build, no part abides alone.
We labor vainly if we fail to know
A firm foundation though ’tis builded slow,
Is built to stand, when hearts are bold to dare
And bound to conquer as to do and bear.
WHAT DO WE OWE OUR FRIENDS?
What do we owe our friends? We owe them love, not fear,
Love that the closer clings when storms are near;
Love that shall speak in eye, in voice, in hand,
And steadfast stand.
What do we owe our friends but loyalty and trust?
Forever faithful, sympathetic, just;
A peerless comforter, and shield and guide,
Whate’er betide.
What do we owe our friends? The kinship of good deeds,
A soul responsive to their deepest needs,
To share life’s burdens all the weary way,
And watch, and pray.
What do we owe our friends? The patience which forbears;
And fond communion ’mid their joys, their cares;
A gracious spirit firm to do its best,
Nor doubt, nor rest.