Poems (Frances Elizabeth Browne)/Life
For works with similar titles, see Life.
LIFE.
O checkered life! though numerous ills Traverse thy varied scene,Still virtue's bright, exhaustless store Casts her fair hues between.
The high resolve, the noble glow, Of energetic youth,The generous heart, the open brow, Of unsuspecting truth,—
What though if disappointment chill And check that generous glow, If falsehood and deceit too soon Oft cloud the open brow?
Still, though experience sees dismayed The frightful hues of vice,Tried steadfast virtue to behold Is surely worth the price.
Virtue presents an angel's mien, Whatever garb she wears,—In prince or peasant, court or cot, Joy, sorrow, smiles, or tears.
In youth 'tis lovely, lovelier still When sorrow dims the page;Reverence and love at once it claims When dignified by age.
To feel, to suffer, yet o'ercome, The adverse shafts of fate,And gratefully enjoy the good We find in every state,—
Virtue like this gives life true zest, Wards evil powerless by,Brings joy and peace to every breast, And proves its source on high.