Morning Star

From the True Wesleyan.

LIVE TO DO GOOD,

BY JAMES STILLMAN.

Live to do good-this world should be
But one united family,
One holy brotherhood;
Where each should for his neighbor feel,
Helping along the general weal,
And universal good.

But selfish aims too oft intrude,
And thoughtful words, or actions rude,
Engender enmity;
And hence the scenes of foolish strife,
Marring the happiness of life,
Which every day we see.

'Tis sad to find the evil seed
So thickly sown, and noxious weed
Its baleful presence spread;
And witness passion's harsh control
Crush the affections of the soul
Beneath its iron tread.

Live to do good,-an idle wail
Is useless-action must prevail,
A living pattern teach;
Invoke example's potent aid,
And that to which you would persuade,
Practice as well as preach.

Live to do good-if festering sores
Humanity with tears deplores,
Strive all you can to heal;
Direct the young, and comfort age,
Boldly for right and truth engage,
And for the suffering feel.

Live to do good, and kindness show
To neighbor, stranger, friend, and foe,
Nor think the task is hard;
Heaven will bestow its righteous meed,
And every earth-forgotten deed
Shall bring a rich reward.