Classic Poem

A wise man said to me,
“Laugh first at life, for life
Will laugh at you,” said he
“Tears may be sweet
But laughter is the best—
Come walk with lightsome feet,
Take trouble as a jest,
Laugh first and last,” said he.

I held his wisdom in my mind,
Though it was bitter-tanged as rue.
When life is crabbèd and unkind
Laughter is best. So true
You spoke that now I find
I laugh, wise man, at you.