A pat on the back is only a few vertebrae removed from a kick in the pants, but is miles ahead in results.

It is easy to tell the toiler How best he can carry his pack But no one can rate a burden's weight Until it has been on his back

While forced to dwell apart from thy dear face, Love, robed like sorrow, led me by the hand And taught my doubting heart to understand That which has puzzled all the human race.

The dark today leads into light tomorrow. There is no endless joy, and yet no endless sorrow.

And the smile that is worth the praises of earth is the smile that shines through tears.

No question is ever settled until it is settled right.

Unwearied, and with springing steps elate, I had conveyed my wealth along the road. The empty sack proved now a heavier load: I was borne down beneath its worthless weight. I stumbled on, and knocked at Death's dark gate. There was no answer. Stung by sorrow's goad I forced my way into that grim abode, And laughed, and flung Life's empty sack to Fate.