Classic Poem

A Tribute To the Late Richard B. Harrison, ( " de Lawd " in Green Pastures ,) whose favorite saying was " Keep on, keeping on[ " ]

A Grand Old Sage from the House of Art,
Just " kept on keeping on "
While hope flamed red in his royal heart;
He made the goal — he won.

O the way was'n[']t always smooth and bright,
There were paths where no " footlights " gleamed:
But he " walked by faith " and not " by sight " ;
Just plodded along — and dreamed —

That he'd surely reach the longed-sought place,
Where there'd be no " darkened scene " ;
He would not pause — he would keep up the pace,
And he'd find those " pastures green. "

He did — and lo! at the end of the road,
Rich reward awaited him there;
The " footlights gleamed " and the " droplights glowed, "
There were " sidelights " everywhere.

And thousands cheered as he played his " role "
With dignity and grace;
While the light of laughter in his soul
Beamed from his radiant face.

Then the " curtain fell " but it wasn't the end.
For his " act " still holds the stage,
And the flaming fires of hope ascend
From the heart of the " Grand Old Sage " —

Upward to those who dare to aspire
To the goal which he has won,
And they'll surely reach their " high desire. "
If they " Keep on keeping on. "