Poems (Carter)/Virtue

by Fanny Lawrence Carter

VIRTUE.

It is not virtueTo be gifted of the Lord,But that is virtueWhich can use those giftsTo glorify the Giver—not the man.

It is not virtueTo be terror-proof,But that is virtueWhich can bring all fearUnder control of duty and of love.

It is not virtueTo be light of heart,But that is virtueWhich can sunshine giveWhen clouds abound o'er spirit and o'er life.

It is not virtueTo be generous,When we can gratify each passing wish;But that is virtueWhen self-sacrificeGives gladly that which industry has won.

It is not Christian virtueWhen we workAlone for those we love,But that is Christian virtueWhen we feelAnd fill the need of friend and foe alike.