Classic Poem

Could we only see the goodness
Of the ones we meet each day,
We'd not stop to criticize them
As we pass along life's way.
We'd tell others of their merits,
Rather than of faults we see;
Could we only see the goodness
Much more pleasant it would be.
Could we only see the burden
Carried by our fellowman,
We would be less prone to taunt him
As this earthly sphere we span.
We would seek to aid our brother,
Could we see the load he bears;
Critics would be few and scattered
If we knew each other's cares:
Could we lift the misty curtain
Veiling those we chance to meet,
We would be more kind and gentle
To the travelers on life's street.
We would pluck the thorns that hurt them
On the great highway of life,
Make it easier for the traveler,
In this world where sin is rife.
Could we look into the future,
See those lost eternally;
We'd bestir our souls from slumber,
Cry to God incessantly.
We'd not loiter on the highway
As we plod life's dusty road;
But we'd hasten to the rescue
Of those souls near death's abode.