S.Louise Rayle
The years have quickly slipped away;
You pause now at the open door;
You linger but you cannot stay--
My dear, you are a child no more.
Bu graduation time is good--
A time to go forth seeking truth,
Stepping into adulthood
Yet clinging to the dreams of youth.
Yearning to achieve a name--
But to this I must confess:
I do not wish you wealth and fame--
Only peace and happiness.
Happiness in all you do;
Peace with God and peace with man;
Doing work you live to do--
Doing it the best you can.
Think not your efforts are in vain--
Adversity but makes us grow;
One must seek a higher plane
To view the grandeur down below.
Unto thine own self be true--
These are words by which to live,
Being just in all you do,
Willing to forget, forgive.
For peace is not with money bought
Nor happiness axquired with fame;
He with loneliness is fraught
Who strives but to exalt his name.
Always be sincere and true
Ever searching for the right;
Be honest in whatever you do
For in honesty is might.
Greet all with a friendly smile;
Extend a hand to those in need;
Adhere to principles worthwhile,
And let kindness be your creed.
Yes, life comprises more than gold--
See the sunshine, and the flowers;
Watch as future years unfold
Into golden days and hours.
Grasp them ere they pass you by;
Plan to use each precious minute;
You'll discover, if you try,
Peace and happiness within it.