111 Most Popular Inspirational Poems That Can Motivate You

Inspirational poems and motivational poems have an amazing ability to change the way we feel about life. When you change the quality of your thinking, you change the quality of your life, sometimes instantly. Just as positive words can make someone smile or a well-timed humorous quote can make someone laugh, our thoughts react to the world in real-time.

You see, the way you think and feel about yourself, including your beliefs and expectations about what is possible for you, determines everything that happens to you. You can decide what you are going to think in any given situation. Your thoughts and feelings determine your actions and determine the results you get. It all starts with your thoughts!

“I CAN DO IT!”

And here – at OZOFE.COM, we have collected the best inspirational poems – 111 great poems that can motivate you! If you ever notice your energy or your spirit begin to drop, simply recite an inspirational and uplifting poem to quickly boost your mood. Brighten up your day with 100 inspirational and motivational poems below.

Remember, you have complete control over only one thing in the universe — your thinking – and that’s where it all started!

1, You Will Never See Me Fall © Joyce Alcantara

You may see me struggle,
but you won’t see me fall.
Regardless if I’m weak or not,
I’m going to stand tall.
Everyone says life is easy,
but truly living it is not.
Times get hard,
people struggle
and constantly get put on the spot.
I’m going to wear the biggest smile,
even though I want to cry.
I’m going to fight to live,
even though I’m destined to die.
And even though it’s hard
and I may struggle through it all,
you may see me struggle…
but you will NEVER see me fall.

2, Life Steps © Catherine Pulsifer

Our entire life is made up of choices,
What we decide, the action we take,
the attitude we display
All represent the steps of life.

Sometimes we take two steps forward
And one-step back.
Some of us take baby steps
Some of us take giant steps

But the secret is not to let that
one step back turn into a failure.
Learn from backward steps
And keep on stepping forward in this dance Called Life!

3, Phenomenal Woman © Maya Angelou

Pretty women wonder where my secret lies.
I’m not cute or built to suit a fashion model’s size
But when I start to tell them,
They think I’m telling lies.
I say,
It’s in the reach of my arms
The span of my hips,
The stride of my step,
The curl of my lips.
I’m a woman
Phenomenally.
Phenomenal woman,
That’s me.

I walk into a room
Just as cool as you please,
And to a man,
The fellows stand or
Fall down on their knees.
Then they swarm around me,
A hive of honey bees.
I say,
It’s the fire in my eyes,
And the flash of my teeth,
The swing in my waist,
And the joy in my feet.
I’m a woman
Phenomenally.
Phenomenal woman,
That’s me.

Men themselves have wondered
What they see in me.
They try so much
But they can’t touch
My inner mystery.
When I try to show them
They say they still can’t see.
I say,
It’s in the arch of my back,
The sun of my smile,
The ride of my breasts,
The grace of my style.
I’m a woman

Phenomenally.
Phenomenal woman,
That’s me.

Now you understand
Just why my head’s not bowed.
I don’t shout or jump about
Or have to talk real loud.
When you see me passing
It ought to make you proud.
I say,
It’s in the click of my heels,
The bend of my hair,
the palm of my hand,
The need of my care,
‘Cause I’m a woman
Phenomenally.
Phenomenal woman,
That’s me.

4, I Choose The Mountain © Howard Simon

The low lands call
I am tempted to answer
They are offering me a free dwelling
Without having to conquer

The massive mountain makes its move
Beckoning me to ascend
A much more difficult path
To get up the slippery bend

I cannot choose both
I have a choice to make
I must be wise
This will determine my fate

I choose, I choose the mountain
With all its stress and strain
Because only by climbing
Can I rise above the plain

I choose the mountain
And I will never stop climbing
I choose the mountain
And I shall forever be ascending

I choose the mountain!

5, Pain Ends © Katy A. Brown

Breathe in the fresh air,
Put your mind at ease.
Let down your hair,
Let it flow in the breeze.

Let your eyes wander
To all the beauty to be seen.
If those toxic thoughts you still do ponder,
Then let out a scream.

Scream until the pain is gone,
Until you no longer feel afraid.
Open your eyes to a new dawn,
Let the darkness fade.

No longer compare yourself
Or your flaws to others’ perfections.
Take the negativity off the shelf.
Focus on your direction.

Pick the sadness up off the floor,
Sweep it into the wind.
Close the door on self-hatred.
Never let it back in.

For the lies it would often tell you,
You will no longer agree.
Happiness and love are what you should hold onto.
They are whom you should give the key.

Pay no attention to the toxic thoughts,
Listen to those who adore everything you are.
Overthinking was what you once were taught,
But now those thoughts you put in a jar.

Focus on your goals,
Never lose your fight.
It’s time to open new scrolls.
Everything will be all right.

6, Always Remember to Forget © Unknown

Always remember to forget
The things that made you sad
But never forget to remember
The things that made you glad
Always remember to forget

The friends that proved untrue
But don’t forget to remember
Those that have stuck by you
Always remember to forget

The troubles that have passed away
But never, never forget to remember
The blessings that come each day.

7, The Strongest Girl I Ever Knew © Ronald Doe

She never got to dance
Or go to her own prom.
She never got the chance
To forget where she came from.

She never got to kiss,
A man she idolized.
She never felt love’s bliss,
‘Cause she was paralyzed.

She never got to talk
About love with a smile.
She never got to walk
Down a church’s aisle.

She never got to say
Those precious words, “I Do.”
But she was far and away
The strongest girl I ever knew.

She couldn’t brush her hair
Or put make up on her face.
She couldn’t hold you dear
Or give you a warm embrace.

She couldn’t clasp her hands
As if in the form of prayer.
She couldn’t understand
Why she was in a wheelchair.

She never showed her fears
Or let you hear her cries.
She never showed the tears
That fell down from her eyes.

She never looked for pity
Or sympathy from you.
That’s why she’ll always be
The strongest girl I ever knew.

8, Help Yourself To Happiness © Helen Steiner Rice

Everybody, everywhere
seeks happiness, it’s true,
But finding it and keeping it
seem difficult to do.
Difficult because we think
that happiness is found
Only in the places where
wealth and fame abound—
And so we go on searching
in palaces of pleasure
Seeking recognition
and monetary treasure,
Unaware that happiness
is just a state of mind
Within the reach of everyone
who takes time to be kind.
For in making others happy
we will be happy, too.
For the happiness you give away
returns to shine on you.

9, Mighty Oak © Kathy J Parenteau

Stand tall, oh mighty oak, for all the world to see.
Your strength and undying beauty forever amazes me.
Though storm clouds hover above you,
Your branches span the sky
In search of the radiant sunlight you
Count on to survive.
When the winds are high and restless and
You lose a limb or two,
It only makes you stronger.
We could learn so much from you.
Though generations have come and gone
And brought about such change,
Quietly you’ve watched them all,
Yet still remained the same.
I only pray God gives to me
The strength he’s given you
To face each day with hope,
Whether skies are black or blue.
Life on earth is truly a gift.
Every moment we must treasure.
It’s the simple things we take for granted
That become our ultimate pleasures.

10, It’s Up to You © Anonymous

One song can spark a moment,
One flower can wake the dream.
One tree can start a forest,
One bird can herald spring.

One smile begins a friendship,
One handclasp lifts a soul.
One star can guide a ship at sea,
One word can frame the goal.

One vote can change a nation,
One sunbeam lights a room.
One candle wipes out darkness,
One laugh will conquer gloom.

One step must start each journey,
One word must start each prayer.
One hope will raise our spirits,
One touch can show you care.

One voice can speak with wisdom,
One heart can know what’s true.
One life can make the difference,
You see, It’s Up to You!

11, Live Life © Livelovelaugh

Life is crazy
And totally unpredictable…
It’s going to push you over,
Kick you while you’re down,
And hit you when you try to get back up.
Not everything can beat you.
Things are going to change you,
But you get to choose which ones you let change you.
Listen to your heart,
Follow your dreams,
And let no one tell you what you’re capable of.
Push the limits,
Bend the rules,
And enjoy every minute of it.
Laugh at everything.
Live for as long as you can.
Love all,
But trust none.
Believe in yourself,
And never lose faith in others.
Settle for nothing but only the best,
And give 110% in everything you do.
Take risks,
Live on the edge,
Yet stay safe,
And cherish every moment of it.
Life is a gift.
Appreciate all the rewards,
And jump on every opportunity.
Not everyone’s going to love you,
But who needs them anyway?
Challenge everything,
And fight for what you believe.
Back down to nothing,
But give in to the little things in life,
After all, that is what makes you.
Forget the unnecessary,
But remember everything.
Bring it with you everywhere you go.
Learn something new,
And appreciate criticism.
Hate nothing,
But dislike what you want.
Never forget where you came from,
And always remember where you are going.
Live life to its fullest,
And have a reason for everything,
Even if it’s totally insane.
Find your purpose in life,
And live it!

12, Thinking © Walter D. Wintle

If you think you are beaten, you are;
If you think you dare not, you don’t.
If you’d like to win, but you think you can’t,
It is almost a cinch you won’t.

If you think you’ll lose, you’ve lost;
For out in this world we find
Success begins with a person’s will
It’s all in the state of mind.

If you think you’re outclassed, you are;
You’ve got to think high to rise.
You’ve got to be sure of yourself before
You can ever win the prize.

Life’s battles don’t always go
To the stronger or faster man;
But sooner or later the person who wins
Is the one who thinks he can!

13, Unique © Abimbola T. Alabi
Because I know who I am,
I’m at ease and free.
I can’t be like others,
And they can’t be me.

I’ve got fading scars,
An unusual physique,
But it all works together
To make me unique.

I’ve got hidden strengths,
Some obvious flaws.
Still I am who I am,
For better, for worse.

I don’t have to blend in;
I won’t live a lie.
I can’t please everyone;
I won’t even try.

Some call me proud;
Others stare at me in alarm.
But I’m not one to bother,
Because I know who I am.

14, Desiderata © Max Ehrmann

Go placidly amid the noise and haste,
and remember what peace there may be in silence.
As far as possible without surrender
be on good terms with all persons.
Speak your truth quietly and clearly;
and listen to others,
even the dull and the ignorant;
they too have their story.

Avoid loud and aggressive persons,
they are vexations to the spirit.
If you compare yourself with others,
you may become vain and bitter;
for always there will be greater and lesser persons than yourself.
Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans.

Keep interested in your own career, however humble;
it is a real possession in the changing fortunes of time.
Exercise caution in your business affairs;
for the world is full of trickery.
But let this not blind you to what virtue there is;
many persons strive for high ideals;
and everywhere life is full of heroism.

Be yourself.
Especially, do not feign affection.
Neither be cynical about love;
for in the face of all aridity and disenchantment
it is as perennial as the grass.

Take kindly the counsel of the years,
gracefully surrendering the things of youth.
Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune.
But do not distress yourself with dark imaginings.
Many fears are born of fatigue and loneliness.
Beyond a wholesome discipline,
be gentle with yourself.

You are a child of the universe,
no less than the trees and the stars;
you have a right to be here.
And whether or not it is clear to you,
no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should.

Therefore be at peace with God,
whatever you conceive Him to be,
and whatever your labors and aspirations,
in the noisy confusion of life keep peace with your soul.

With all its sham, drudgery, and broken dreams,
it is still a beautiful world.
Be cheerful.
Strive to be happy.

15, Our Deepest Fear © Marianne Williamson

Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate.
Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure.
It is our light, not our darkness
That most frightens us.

We ask ourselves
Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous?
Actually, who are you not to be?
You are a child of God.

Your playing small
Does not serve the world.
There’s nothing enlightened about shrinking
So that other people won’t feel insecure around you.

We are all meant to shine,
As children do.
We were born to make manifest
The glory of God that is within us.

It’s not just in some of us;
It’s in everyone.

And as we let our own light shine,
We unconsciously give other people permission to do the same.
As we’re liberated from our own fear,
Our presence automatically liberates others.

16, Faith And Courage In Life © Angie

In life there are people that will hurt us and cause us pain,
but we must learn to forgive and forget and not hold grudges.

In life there are mistakes we will make,
but we must learn from our wrongs and grow from them.

In life there are regrets we will have to live with,
but we must learn to leave the past behind and realize it is something we can’t change.

In life there are people we will loose forever and can’t have back,
but we must learn to let go and move on.

In life there are going to be obstacles that will cause interference,
but we must learn to overcome these challenges and grow stronger.

In life there are fears that will hold us back from what we want,
but we must learn to fight them with the courage from within.

God holds our lives in his hands. He holds the key to our future.
Only he knows our fate.

He sees everything and knows everything.
Everything in life really does happen for a reason: “God’s Reason”

17, The Will To Win © Berton Braley

If you want a thing bad enough
To go out and fight for it,
Work day and night for it,
Give up your time and your peace and
your sleep for it

If only desire of it
Makes you quite mad enough
Never to tire of it,
Makes you hold all other things tawdry
and cheap for it

If life seems all empty and useless without it
And all that you scheme and you dream is about it,

If gladly you’ll sweat for it,
Fret for it, Plan for it,
Lose all your terror of God or man for it,

If you’ll simply go after that thing that you want.
With all your capacity,
Strength and sagacity,
Faith, hope and confidence, stern pertinacity,

If neither cold poverty, famished and gaunt,
Nor sickness nor pain
Of body or brain
Can turn you away from the thing that you want,

If dogged and grim you besiege and beset it,
You’ll get it!

18, I Bend © Selena Odom

I bend but do not break.
I’ve been lost, but I’m not a loser.
I’m a wreck, but I’m not totaled.
I’m fractured but not broken.
I’ve failed, but I’m not a failure.
I’ve fallen hard but can get up again.
I’m isolated, but still I’m free.
I have been destroyed but will rebuild.
My heart is broken, but it will mend.
See, no matter how close I come to breaking, I just continue to bend.

19, Aspirations © Garry Cadd

You gotta aspire
before you climb the highest mountain
reach the highest peak
breathe in that breathe of life
take your first step
self satisfaction
self realization
you did it on your own
overcame all those obstacles
that waited on every turn
every turn of your life
every hurdle that was put in front
put in front of you
still you ran that race
still raised a smile or two
a moment of self discovery
you discovered the real you

20, The World Is Against Me © Edgar Guest

‘The world is against me,’ he said with a sigh.
‘Somebody stops every scheme that I try.
The world has me down and it’s keeping me there;
I don’t get a chance. Oh, the world is unfair!
When a fellow is poor then he can’t get a show;
The world is determined to keep him down low.’
‘What of Abe Lincoln?’ I asked. ‘Would you say
That he was much richer than you are to-day?
He hadn’t your chance of making his mark,
And his outlook was often exceedingly dark;
Yet he clung to his purpose with courage most grim
And he got to the top. Was the world against him?’
‘What of Ben Franklin? I’ve oft heard it said
That many a time he went hungry to bed.
He started with nothing but courage to climb,
But patiently struggled and waited his time.
He dangled awhile from real poverty’s limb,
Yet he got to the top. Was the world against him?
‘I could name you a dozen, yes, hundreds, I guess,
Of poor boys who’ve patiently climbed to success;
All boys who were down and who struggled alone,
Who’d have thought themselves rich if your fortune they’d known;
Yet they rose in the world you’re so quick to condemn,
And I’m asking you now, was the world against them?’

21, Life Is Now © Hollianne Boucher

Time flies and memories fade.
People change and new friendships are made.
Only the true remain forever at our side.
Eventually the disappointment and pain will subside.

It is all about the journey and what has yet to come.
Life is what you make of it; you are what you’ve become.
Life is too short to hold onto regrets.
Forgiveness is key even though you may never forget.

Cherish the good and remove the bad.
Some people don’t realize till it’s gone what they’ve had.
Moving on is a way of life.
There will always be obstacles, pain, and strife.

You must believe that you are strong enough to fight.
You have to believe in yourself to do what is right.
Always do for YOU no matter what you do,
Because in the end the only one who has your back is you.

Never be afraid to take a stand,
And always be willing to lend a helping hand.
A little bit goes a long way.
All it takes is a smile to brighten someone’s day.

Your chance to live is now, so what are you waiting for?
The world is yours for the taking and so much more.
Endless possibilities are forever at your disposal.
The chance to live another day is life’s golden proposal.

Never let anyone tear you down,
And never let anyone steal your shine and make you frown.
So will you sit in the shadows and let darkness win again?
Or will you rise up and make the light your friend?

Here is your chance, so what will you do?
You’ve got this because I believe in you!

22, I Am The Captain of My Soul © Nideesh

I decide what i am to be
never would be the one
who would be held down
by the chains of time
no man, no fear
no superstitions, no tears
would pull me down
into where i came from

I need nothing
nothing, but my soul
nothing, but my will
nothing ,but myself
to take me up
to where i have to get

don’t matter what it takes
or what i have to do
even the torments of hell,
the fierce winds,
the raging tides,
I would withstand them all

I would destroy an army,
an army of a million lies
walk over the failures
like men who never give up
n climb over mountains
of difficulties,
break trough the dams
of uncertainty,
face the darkness
just to be who i am

I am the captain of my soul
and i decide my fate
I choose to be what I am

23, This Is A Daily Reminder © Nicolette

This is a daily reminder
To relax,
To not get angry over small things,
To stay calm.

This is a daily reminder
To be yourself,
To not care what people think,
To know you can be anything.

This is a daily reminder
To love yourself,
To not hurt yourself,
To not work yourself up.

This is a daily reminder
That you are beautiful,
That you are amazing,
That you will succeed.

This is a daily reminder
To always have hope,
To have faith,
To know everything will be okay.

This is a daily reminder
That you have made it so far already,
That you haven’t given up,
That whatever you’re doing is right,
And that you are going to be amazing.

Don’t give up.
Keep holding on and believing.

24, A Lesson from History © Joseph Morris

Everything’s easy after it’s done;
Every battle’s a “cinch” that’s won;
Every problem is clear that’s solved—
The earth was round when it revolved!
But Washington stood amid grave doubt
With enemy forces camped about;
He could not know how he would fare
Till after he’d crossed the Delaware.

Though the river was full of ice
He did not think about it twice,
But started across in the dead of night,
The enemy waiting to open the fight.
Likely feeling pretty blue,
Being human, same as you,
But he was brave amid despair,
And Washington crossed the Delaware!

So when you’re with trouble beset,
And your spirits are soaking wet,
When all the sky with clouds is black,
Don’t lie down upon your back
And look at them. Just do the thing;
Though you are choked, still try to sing.
If times are dark, believe them fair,
And you will cross the Delaware!

25, Success © Niderah

The road to success is not straight.
There is a curve called Failure,
A loop called Confusion,
Speed bumps called Friends,
Red lights called Enemies, and
Caution lights called Family.
But if you have a spare called Determination,
An engine called Perseverance,
Insurance called Faith, and
A driver called Jesus,
You will make it to a place called Success!

26, A Time To Believe © B. J. Morbitzer

To believe is to know that
every day is a new beginning.
Is to trust that miracles happen,
and dreams really do come true.

To believe is to see angels
dancing among the clouds,
To know the wonder of a stardust sky
and the wisdom of the man in the moon.

To believe is to know the value of a nurturing heart,
The innocence of a child’s eyes
and the beauty of an aging hand,
for it is through their teachings we learn to love.

To believe is to find the strength
and courage that lies within us
When it’s time to pick up
the pieces and begin again.

To believe is to know
we are not alone,
That life is a gift
and this is our time to cherish it.

To believe is to know
that wonderful surprises are just
waiting to happen,
And all our hopes and dreams are within reach.

If only we believe.

27, It’s Really Up To You © Shelagh Bullman

One word can start a friendship,
One kiss a love affair,
One smile can bring you laughter,
One hug can show you care,
One wave of your hand can say hello,
One tear can make you cry,
One gentle touch can warm a heart,
One dream can make you fly,
One song can bring back memories,
One thought sees brighter days,
One wish can bring colourful rainbows,
One good deed can bring you praise,
One moon can light your darkness,
One star can guide your soul,
One step will start each journey,
One hope to make your goal,
One hand to hold in friendship,
One heart that’s kind and true,
One Love…One friend, is all you need,
It’s really up to you.

28, Can You Sing a Song? © Joseph Morris

Can you sing a song to greet the sun,
Can you cheerily tackle the work to be done,
Can you vision it finished when only begun,
Can you sing a song?

Can you sing a song when the day’s half through,
When even the thought of the rest wearies you,
With so little done and so much to do,
Can you sing a song?

Can you sing a song at the close of the day,
When weary and tired, the work’s put away,
With the joy that it’s done the best of the pay,
Can you sing a song?

29, Life Doesn’t Frighten Me © Maya Angelou

Shadows on the wall
Noises down the hall
Life doesn’t frighten me at all

Bad dogs barking loud
Big ghosts in a cloud
Life doesn’t frighten me at all

Mean old Mother Goose
Lions on the loose
They don’t frighten me at all

Dragons breathing flame
On my counterpane
That doesn’t frighten me at all.

I go boo
Make them shoo
I make fun
Way they run
I won’t cry
So they fly
I just smile
They go wild

Life doesn’t frighten me at all.

Tough guys fight
All alone at night
Life doesn’t frighten me at all.

Panthers in the park
Strangers in the dark
No, they don’t frighten me at all.

That new classroom where
Boys all pull my hair
(Kissy little girls
With their hair in curls)
They don’t frighten me at all.

Don’t show me frogs and snakes
And listen for my scream,
If I’m afraid at all
It’s only in my dreams.

I’ve got a magic charm
That I keep up my sleeve
I can walk the ocean floor
And never have to breathe.

Life doesn’t frighten me at all
Not at all
Not at all.

Life doesn’t frighten me at all.

30, It Takes Courage © Unknown

It takes strength to be firm,
It takes courage to be gentle.

It takes strength to conquer,
It takes courage to surrender.

It takes strength to be certain,
It takes courage to have doubt.

It takes strength to fit in,
It takes courage to stand out.

It takes strength to feel a friend’s pain,
It takes courage to feel your own pain.

It takes strength to endure abuse,
It takes courage to stop it.

It takes strength to stand alone,
It takes courage to lean on another.

It takes strength to love,
It takes courage to be loved.

It takes strength to survive,
It takes courage to live.

31, Becoming The Best © Eyan Desir

When divine order
Wraps gifts in mortals hands
Executing with excellence
Becomes an easy task

Where the fires burn
The oil of ambition
Intensifies its heat

Where perseverance leaks
Practicing will mould
Sweat into sucess

Obsessions to win
Crushes! the opposition
Hard work builds champions

With the touch of an angel
Get ready, steady go!
To behold the process….

Of becoming the best.
just for today.

32, Dear Addiction © Zeb Edington

I’m writing this to you,
Telling you we’re through.
I can’t take you anymore,
Don’t know what I liked you for.
All you did was wear me out.
Now I know what you’re all about.

You came to me with promise and joy,
Now look at all the things you destroy.
Families, lives, bank accounts, you see.
You ruined it all with one little tease.
Look at the way you make me feel
Then you take it all and want me to steal.

Why can’t you just go and hide
Somewhere far away where I’ll never find?
Everyone at home doesn’t understand
How you rip me apart then lend me a hand.
I keep coming back thinking inside
Maybe this time I’ll make you my bride.

Then I sit and wonder why,
Why do you really want me to die?
Thousands and thousands come to you
Hoping and praying you’ll help them through.
Then they fall for your lending hand,
Only to realize you’re nothing but a scam.

You promised me heaven and sent me to hell.
You ruined my life and then wished me well.
Watch me now as I go on my way.
I’m washing myself of all your pain.
So you and your power can just leave me be.
I’m taking my life and setting it free.

33, Keep Sweet © Strickland W. Gillilan

Don’t be foolish and get sour when things don’t just come your way—
Don’t you be a pampered baby and declare, “Now I won’t play!”
Just go grinning on and bear it;
Have you heartache? Millions share it,
If you earn a crown, you’ll wear it—
Keep sweet.

Don’t go handing out your troubles to your busy fellow-men—
If you whine around they’ll try to keep from meeting you again;
Don’t declare the world’s “agin” you,
Don’t let pessimism win you,
Prove there’s lots of good stuff in you—
Keep sweet.

If your dearest hopes seem blighted and despair looms into view,
Set your jaw and whisper grimly, “Though they’re false, yet I’ll be true.”
Never let your heart grow bitter;
With your lips to Hope’s transmitter,
Hear Love’s songbirds bravely twitter,
“Keep sweet.”

Bless your heart, this world’s a good one, and will always help a man;
Hate, misanthropy, and malice have no place in Nature’s plan.
Help your brother there who’s sighing.
Keep his flag of courage flying;
Help him try—’twill keep you trying—
Keep sweet.

34, Never Stop Being You © Terrie Brushette

Never stop caring about the little things in life.
Never stop dreaming, and don’t give into strife.
Never stop wondering are we on our own.
Never stop thinking has your spirituality grown.

Never stop building bridges that lead to better tomorrows.
Never stop trying, and don’t give into sorrow.
Never stop feeling amazed at the beauty that surrounds you.
Never stop hearing the music, and don’t give into the blues.

Never stop pushing away negative thoughts that make you feel sad.
Never stop looking at all the miracles we have had.
Never stop loving the ones you hold dear.
Never stop giving, and don’t give into the fear.

Never stop smiling, but look forward to each new day.
Never stop shining in your own special way.
Never forget that all storms will clear.
Remember brighter tomorrows are always near.

35, Smiles © Ella Wheeler Wilcox

Smile a little, smile a little,
As you go along,
Not alone when life is pleasant,
But when things go wrong.
Care delights to see you frowning,
Loves to hear you sigh;
Turn a smiling face upon her –
Quick the dame will fly.

Smile a little, smile a little,
All along the road;
Every life must have its burden,
Every heart its load.
Why sit down in gloom and darkness
With your grief to sup?
As you drink Fate’s bitter tonic,
Smile across the cup.

Smile upon the troubled pilgrims
Whom you pass and meet;
Frowns are thorns, and smiles are blossoms
Oft for weary feet.
Do not make the way seem harder
By a sullen face;
Smile a little, smile a little,
Brighten up the place.

Smile upon your undone labour;
Not for one who grieves
O’er his task waits wealth or glory;
He who smiles achieves.
Though you meet with loss and sorrow
In the passing years,
Smile a little, smile a little,
Even through your tears.

36, Letting Go © Unknown

To let go doesn’t mean to stop caring;
It means I can’t do it for someone else.
To let go is not to cut myself off…
It’s the realization that I can’t control another…
To let go is not to enable,
but to allow learning from natural consequences.
To let go is to admit powerlessness,
which means the outcome is not in my hands.
To let go is not to try and change or blame another,
I can only change myself.
To let go is not to care for, but to care about.
To let go is not to fix, but to be supportive.
To let go is not to judge,
but to allow another to be a human being.
To let go is not to be in the middle arranging all the outcomes,
but to allow others to affect their own outcomes.
To let go is not to be protective,
It is to permit another to face reality.
To let go is not to deny, but to accept.
To let go is not to nag, scold, or argue,
but to search out my own shortcomings and correct them.
To let go is not to adjust everything to my desires,
but to take each day as it comes and cherish the moment.
To let go is not to criticize and regulate anyone,
but to try to become what I dream I can be.
To let go is not to regret the past,
but to grow and live for the future.
To let go is to fear less and love more.

37, A Voice Behind © Pearlyn

When into sorrow, my poor soul sinks
When a sound of despair in my heart rings
I’m strongly pushed to do my best
By a voice that says, “There is still hope you dare not rest.”

When chains of sorrow surround me well
When in my self, I feel like hell
I’m forced to face life with its tests
By a voice that says,”There is still hope you dare not rest.”

When I just feel like crying aloud
When all my worries rise like a cloud
I’m guarded safe like a bird in its nest
By a voice that says,”There is still hope you dare not rest.”

From all my fears, I now am free
I’m good and strong, I could clearly see,
But can anyone say, is it from east or west
That I hear the voice, “There is still hope you dare not rest.”

With hope and courage, I just am full
Because of the voice, that gave me a very strong pull
It’s my loving God, the unseen guest
Who says,”There is still hope you dare not rest.”

38, Life Still Has A Meaning © Unknown

If there is a future there is time for mending—
Time to see your troubles coming to an ending.

Life is never hopeless however great your sorrow—
If you’re looking forward to a new tomorrow.

If there is time for wishing then there is time for hoping—
When through doubt and darkness you are blindly groping.

Though the heart be heavy and hurt you may be feeling—
If there is time for praying there is time for healing.

So if through your window there is a new day breaking—
Thank God for the promise, though mind and soul be aching,

39, Believe In Yourself © Anonymous

Believe in yourself and in your dream
Though impossible things may seem
Someday, somehow you’ll get through
To the goal you have in view

Mountains fall and seas divide
Before the one who in his stride
Takes a hard road day by day
Sweeping obstacles away

Believe in yourself and in your plan
Say not—I cannot—but, I can
The prizes of life we fail to win
Because we doubt the power within.

40, My Wage © Jessie B. Rittenhouse

I bargained with Life for a penny,
And Life would pay no more,
However I begged at evening
When I counted my scanty store;

For Life is a just employer,
He gives you what you ask,
But once you have set the wages,
Why, you must bear the task.

I worked for a menial’s hire,
Only to learn, dismayed,
That any wage I had asked of Life,
Life would have paid.

41, Responsible © Sarah Sisson

Where do I get this treasured bliss?
I take the passion of life and I take the risks.
Life isn’t for that fool to be me.
I can understand my happiness in a simple kiss.

Truly I hold a key to the world I live in.
My mind is a blessing and I chose to give in.
To a higher power that is mine.
I can live a human life.
I can be forgiven for sin.

Because I believe in light.
I believe in this life you must fight.
For a moment of peace can touch us all.
So deeply that you will find that you
Don’t always have to be right.

I can be free and responsible.
I can offer my self to a better cause.
I can be whole and loving.
I can do the things I need to do.
I am responsible.

42, Time Goes By © Crystal Lewis

Time goes by and slips away
Just as the sky turns from blue to grey.
We are here but only for a short stay.
Don’t let life pass with words you never say.

Don’t live in anger, with fear and regrets.
Seek forgiveness and lay your pain to rest.
Don’t judge too quickly, as you may be wrong.
Instead, choose to live life as an uplifting song.

When tears fall, wipe them away
As they will only last but for a day.
Sometimes we hurt because we care.
Sometimes life seems unfair.

We make mistakes we wish we could change
And wonder how our life could be rearranged.
Second chances last only for so long, reach out to others
As we are all sisters and brothers.

There are angels in heaven that watch us every day.
They look over us as we laugh and play.
Live with joy, and when you lie down at night,
Thank the Lord and release any strife.

43, One © Shawnee Kellie

One word can spark a moment,
One flower can wake the dream;
One tree can start a forest,
One bird can herald Spring.

One smile can bring a friendship,
One handclasp can lift a soul;
One star can guide a ship at sea,
One cheer can obtain a goal.

One vote can change a Nation,
One sunbeam can lift a room;
One candle wipes out darkness,
One laugh will conquer gloom.
One look can change two lives;
One kiss can make love bloom.

One step must start each journey,
One word must start each prayer;
One hope can raise our spirits,
One touch can show you care.

One voice can speak with wisdom,
One heart can know what’s true;
One life can make a difference,
One life is me and you…

44, If You Believe © Abimbola T. Alabi

When your mind is set
On a splendid thing you want to do,
There are some who will shrug,
Like you don’t have a clue.

When you proceed,
Some will say it can’t be done
And that there is really no need
For you to take it on.

And halfway through,
Some may deem your progress small,
Or others will ask if what you’re doing
Is even worthwhile at all.

But when you succeed,
Then with flattering tongue,
The same folks will say they knew
That you’d do it all along.

Now, folks may mean well
When they say it can’t be done,
But then who is to lose
If they are actually wrong?

But if you take note of why
Some doubt your point of view
And stick close to those
Who see the strength in you,

If you put your faith in God,
No matter how tough it may seem,
If you work hard, if you believe,
You will achieve your dream.

For what others think,
Whether or not you’re strong or smart,
Sometimes, doesn’t really count
As what you believe in your heart.

45, Opportunity © Berton Braley

With doubt and dismay you are smitten
You think there’s no chance for you, son?
Why, the best books haven’t been written
The best race hasn’t been run,
The best score hasn’t been made yet,
The best song hasn’t been sung,
The best tune hasn’t been played yet,
Cheer up, for the world is young!

No chance? Why the world is just eager
For things that you ought to create
Its store of true wealth is still meagre
Its needs are incessant and great,
It yearns for more power and beauty
More laughter and love and romance,
More loyalty, labor and duty,
No chance- why there’s nothing but chance!

For the best verse hasn’t been rhymed yet,
The best house hasn’t been planned,
The highest peak hasn’t been climbed yet,
The mightiest rivers aren’t spanned,
Don’t worry and fret, faint hearted,
The chances have just begun,
For the Best jobs haven’t been started,
The Best work hasn’t been done.

46, Don’t Wait Until I Am Gone © Jennifer Fernandes

Treat me with love, dignity, respect and compassion
Now as I am healthy, vibrant and alive.
Don’t wait to hear that I am sick and dying
To love me the way I was meant to be loved.
Bring me flowers and candy on any day just because.
Don’t wait for a holiday, love and cherish me every day.
Tell me I am beautiful.
See my beauty in my body and soul.
Don’t wait to see that I am disfigured
And then tell me that I am beautiful
Because you think that is what I want to hear.
Talk to me lovingly now so I can hear your beautiful voice
And listen to the ringing of your laughter.
Don’t try to talk to me that way now
That I am deaf and can no longer hear your sweet voice.
Speak words of love and compassion
So I can remember those conversations
Even though I may not be able to hear them again.
Come one day and you will be sad, you will be sorry!
Treat me like a human being with a life
That needs to be lived my way…not yours!
Remember that our Creator gave you your own life
To live the way you please.
Leave me to live mine!!
I do not tell you what you should or should not do…
I just listen and give you support.
Why can’t you do the same?
I am this way and you are that way.
That’s because we are different…
We are unique…can’t we compromise?
Bury the hatchet and move along.
Free your body, free your soul.
Let’s just take the precious time
We have now to live and to love…
Everything else will slowly fall into place.
Now I am sick and dying.
You are now trying to love me, to bring me flowers,
To stroke my hair and to speak loving words.
Why did we waste all those years, all that time…
Just to be where we are now,
Now when I am too weak, too sick to enjoy your gifts?
Love me now…
As your sister, your brother,
Your husband, your wife,
Your niece, your nephew,
Your daughter, your son…
Don’t wait until it is too late!
Don’t wait until I am gone…

47, A Smile © Unknown

Smiling is infectious,
You catch it like the flu,
When someone smiled at me today,
I started smiling too.

I passed around the corner,
And someone saw my grin,
When he smiled I realized,
I’d passed it on to him.

I thought about that smile,
Then realized its worth,
A single smile, just like mine,
Could travel round the earth.

So, if you feel a smile begin,
Don’t leave it undetected.
Let’s start an epidemic quick,
And get the world infected.

48, Live In The Now © Lenora McWhorter

Look not back on yesterday
or what you have left behind.
For only today is yours to claim,
and this moment only is your time.

Fret not on what has been
or on what has passed you by.
Yesterday is far behind you.
You can’t change it if you try.

New opportunities await you.
They come with each new day,
so look ahead with faith and hope,
and blessings will come your way.

Keep faith alive in your heart.
Live full and live well each day.
Do all the good for all you can
to all those who pass your way.

Yesterday is out of your reach
and tomorrow is not yours to claim.
Only this moment belongs to you.
So use it wisely, in Jesus’ name.

49, I Know Not Why © Morris Rosenfeld

I lift mine eyes against the sky,
The clouds are weeping, so am I;
I lift mine eyes again on high,
The sun is smiling, so am I.
Why do I smile? Why do I weep?
I do not know; it lies too deep.

I hear the winds of autumn sigh,
They break my heart, they make me cry;
I hear the birds of lovely spring,
My hopes revive, I help them sing.
Why do I sing? Why do I cry?
It lies so deep, I know not why.

50, What Matters Most © Louis

Embrace who you are,
And love like a fool.
Try not to judge,
And never be cruel.
Hold your head high,
And never look back,
Give all you can,
And never hold back.
Laugh like a clown,
And cry like the rain.
Remember with the price of peace
There sometimes comes pain.
Always care for your family
Because too soon they’re gone.
Forgive and forget,
And try to live on.
Face all your fears,
And try to be brave.
If you remember love is the answer,
Then you’ll always be saved.
Don’t compare yourself to others,
Or you’ll always be vain.
Remember you’re one of God’s flowers,
And none of them plain.
You’re the light in my life
And the love in my heart.
I knew you were special from the very first start.
When I first held you close,
And I whispered your name,
I knew that my life would never be the same.
I love you, my girl,
From the very first day,
And a team of wild horses couldn’t drag me away,
So remember these words on your special day,
And daddy’s girl you’ll always stay.

51, One of These Days © James W. Foley

Say! Let’s forget it! Let’s put it aside!
Life is so large and the world is so wide.
Days are so short and there’s so much to do,
What if it was false—there’s plenty that’s true.
Say! Let’s forget it! Let’s brush it away
Now and forever, so what do you say?
All of the bitter words said may be praise
One of these days.

Say! Let’s forget it! Let’s wipe off the slate,
Find something better to cherish than hate.
There’s so much good in the world that we’ve had,
Let’s strike a balance and cross off the bad.
Say! Let’s forgive it, whatever it be,
Let’s not be slaves when we ought to be free.
We shall be walking in sunshiny ways
One of these days.

Say! Let’s not mind it! Let’s smile it away,
Bring not a withered rose from yesterday;
Flowers are so fresh from the wayside and wood,
Sorrows are blessings but half understood.
Say! Let’s not mind it, however it seems,
Hope is so sweet and holds so many dreams;
All of the sere fields with blossoms shall blaze
One of these days.

Say! Let’s not take it so sorely to heart!
Hates may be friendships just drifted apart,
Failure be genius not quite understood,
Say! Let’s get closer to somebody’s side,
See what his dreams are and learn how he tried,
See if our scoldings won’t give way to praise
One of these days.

Say! Let’s not wither! Let’s branch out and rise
Out of the byways and nearer the skies.
Let’s spread some shade that’s refreshing and deep
Where some tired traveler may lie down and sleep.
Say! Let’s not tarry! Let’s do it right now;
So much to do if we just find out how!
We may not be here to help folks or praise
One of these days.

52, The Hands Of A Warrior © Pat A. Fleming

Purple veins strain against the skin.
Pale, translucent, paper thin.
Skinny fingers clawed in monstrous shapes,
Brown spots from years that she can’t erase.

Now wrinkled and fragile, weak and sore,
So many things she can’t do anymore.
Some days she feels she’s been betrayed
By the cruelty of her advancing age.

She rubs her hands to ease the ache
And recalls the life they helped to make.
She looks at them and feels the loss,
Living a life bears a very high cost.

These hands that held her children near,
That gently dried their salty tears.
Hands that held her husband’s tight,
That never let go against the fight.

Miraculous hands that protected and soothed.
Hands, they conveyed her every mood.
Hands so strong they could carry the weight,
That would never give up and never forsake.

Those hands that took little but always gave,
Hands that applauded each achievement made.
Those soft, sweet hands that gently cared,
For those sick or lost in dark despair.

Hands that fussed and fumbled that day
Her husband gave their daughter away.
Those hands holding tight as he slowly died,
Caressing his brow as she stood by his side.

Hands that rocked her grandson to sleep,
That gladly took over when others grew weak.
Hands that once held everyone that she loved,
And prayed for strength to our God above.

Hands that were always so willing to give,
Hands that reveal a life fully lived.
Small, feeble hands, now empty and cold,
These hands that each day will keep growing old.

These hands she now tends to hide away,
These hands that at times make her feel ashamed.
Grotesque and useless in her eyes,
They rest in her lap as she quietly cries.

But I see the hands of a hero so true,
A woman who survived what this life put her through.
A woman whose heart still shimmers like gold,
With the hands of a warrior who made her mark on this world.

53, Be The Best Of Whatever You Are © Douglas Malloch

If you can’t be a pine on the top of the hill,
Be a scrub in the valley — but be
The best little scrub by the side of the rill;
Be a bush if you can’t be a tree.

If you can’t be a bush be a bit of the grass,
And some highway happier make;
If you can’t be a muskie then just be a bass —
But the liveliest bass in the lake!

We can’t all be captains, we’ve got to be crew,
There’s something for all of us here,
There’s big work to do, and there’s lesser to do,
And the task you must do is the near.

If you can’t be a highway then just be a trail,
If you can’t be the sun be a star;
It isn’t by size that you win or you fail —
Be the best of whatever you are!

54, Two Raindrops © Joseph Morris

Two little raindrops were born in a shower,
And one was so pompously proud of his power,
He got in his head an extravagant notion
He’d hustle right off and swallow the ocean.
A blade of grass that grew by the brook
Called for a drink, but no notice he took
Of such trifling things. He must hurry to be
Not a mere raindrop, but the whole sea.
A stranded ship needed water to float,
But he could not bother to help a boat.
He leaped in the sea with a puff and a blare—
And nobody even knew he was there!

But the other drop as along it went
Found the work to do for which it was sent:
It refreshed the lily that drooped its head,
And bathed the grass that was almost dead.
It got under the ships and helped them along,
And all the while sang a cheerful song.
It worked every step of the way it went,
Bringing joy to others, to itself content.
At last it came to its journey’s end,
And welcomed the sea as an old-time friend.
“An ocean,” it said, “there could not be
Except for the millions of drops like me.

55, It Couldn’t Be Done © Edgar Guest

Somebody said that it couldn’t be done
But he with a chuckle replied
That “maybe it couldn’t,” but he would be one
Who wouldn’t say so till he’d tried.
So he buckled right in with the trace of a grin
On his face. If he worried he hid it.
He started to sing as he tackled the thing
That couldn’t be done, and he did it!

Somebody scoffed: “Oh, you’ll never do that;
At least no one ever has done it;”
But he took off his coat and he took off his hat
And the first thing we knew he’d begun it.
With a lift of his chin and a bit of a grin,
Without any doubting or quiddit,
He started to sing as he tackled the thing
That couldn’t be done, and he did it.

There are thousands to tell you it cannot be done,
There are thousands to prophesy failure,
There are thousands to point out to you one by one,
The dangers that wait to assail you.
But just buckle in with a bit of a grin,
Just take off your coat and go to it;
Just start in to sing as you tackle the thing
That “cannot be done,” and you’ll do it.

56, Your Mission © Ellen M. H. Gates

If you cannot on the ocean
Sail among the swiftest fleet,
Rocking on the highest billows,
Laughing at the storms you meet;
You can stand among the sailors,
Anchored yet within the bay,
You can lend a hand to help them
As they launch their boats away.

If you are too weak to journey
Up the mountain, steep and high,
You can stand within the valley
While the multitudes go by;
You can chant in happy measure
As they slowly pass along–
Though they may forget the singer,
They will not forget the song.

If you cannot in the harvest
Garner up the richest sheaves,
Many a grain, both ripe and golden,
Oft the careless reaper leaves;
Go and glean among the briars
Growing rank against the wall,
For it may be that their shadow
Hides the heaviest grain of all.

If you cannot in the conflict
Prove yourself a soldier true;
If, where fire and smoke are thickest,
There’s no work for you to do;
When the battle field is silent,
You can go with careful tread;
You can bear away the wounded,
You can cover up the dead.

Do not then stand idly waiting
For some greater work to do;
Fortune is a lazy goddess,
She will never come to you;
Go and toil in any vineyard,
Do not fear to do and dare.
If you want a field of labor
You can find it anywhere.

57, Dance © Paul Hayward

Open your heart to happiness,
Let every pore absorb light.
Swim in the joy of the here and now,
And cast off the darkness of night.
Walk in the summer of sunshine.
Fly in the blueness of sky.
Know possibilities are boundless.
Understand that nothing can die.
Step from the shadows of torment.
Sing ’til your throat gets too sore.
Smile for as long as the day is,
And laugh just a little bit more.
Breathe slowly and deeply and listen.
Give all your ideas a chance.
Let the sun beat down on your goodness,
And kick off your shoes and dance.

58, The Disappointed © Ella Wheeler Wilcox

There are songs enough for the hero
Who dwells on the heights of fame;
I sing of the disappointed—
For those who have missed their aim.

I sing with a tearful cadence
For one who stands in the dark,
And knows that his last, best arrow
Has bounded back from the mark.

I sing for the breathless runner,
The eager, anxious soul,
Who falls with his strength exhausted.
Almost in sight of the goal;

For the hearts that break in silence,
With a sorrow all unknown,
For those who need companions,
Yet walk their ways alone.

There are songs enough for the lovers
Who share love’s tender pain,
I sing for the one whose passion
Is given all in vain.

For those whose spirit comrades
Have missed them on their way,
I sing, with a heart o’erflowing,
This minor strain to-day.

And I know the Solar system
Must somewhere keep in space
A prize for that spent runner
Who barely lost the race.

For the plan would be imperfect
Unless it held some sphere
That paid for the toil and talent
And love that are wasted here.

59, Looking Back © Edgar Guest

I might have been rich if I’d wanted the gold instead of the friendships I’ve made.
I might have had fame if I’d sought for renown in the hours when I purposely played.
Now I’m standing to-day on the far edge of life, and I’m just looking backward to see
What I’ve done with the years and the days that were mine, and all that has happened to me.

I haven’t built much of a fortune to leave to those who shall carry my name,
And nothing I’ve done shall entitle me now to a place on the tablets of fame.
But I’ve loved the great sky and its spaces of blue; I’ve lived with the birds and the trees;
I’ve turned from the splendor of silver and gold to share in such pleasures as these.

I’ve given my time to the children who came; together we’ve romped and we’ve played,
And I wouldn’t exchange the glad hours spent with them for the money that I might have made.
I chose to be known and be loved by the few, and was deaf to the plaudits of men;
And I’d make the same choice should the chance come to me to live my life over again.

I’ve lived with my friends and I’ve shared in their joys, known sorrow with all of its tears;
I have harvested much from my acres of life, though some say I’ve squandered my years.
For much that is fine has been mine to enjoy, and I think I have lived to my best,
And I have no regret, as I’m nearing the end, for the gold that I might have possessed.

60, While You Weren’t Here © Janet Michael

While you weren’t here
I cried every night.
A million tears fell,
Still my heart wasn’t right.

While you weren’t here
I did what I could,
Hoping against hope
My decisions were good.

While you weren’t here
I gained some in age.
Things just went on
And life turned a page.

While you weren’t here
I just tried to go on,
Knowing what didn’t kill me
Would only make me strong.

While you weren’t here
A whole lot got changed.
My life became different,
My world rearranged.

While you weren’t here
I had to learn to be alone,
To stand on my two feet,
To make my own home.

So that’s where I am now,
At this stage of my life,
Still scared and alone,
Still coping with strife.

And oh how I wish that
Things could be different,
That I could go back
To a time in the past,

To a time before
You weren’t here.

61, Enjoy Life! © Mae

Life’s too short to be wasted.
It passes just once, so make the most out of it.
Live life the way you want it to be.
Live it to the fullest, feel free!

Live as the sun shines in the sky.
Live as high as the birds can fly.
Live as the colors of a rainbow.
Live as far as the clouds can go.

Never waste it with worthless doubts and fears,
With insecurities and useless tears.
Remember that what couldn’t tear you makes you strong.
Put away frustrations, sing your own song!

Believe in what you can do.
The world is round; it’s all up to you.
Think fast, act now!
Time is gold; it couldn’t be renewed.

Value experiences, learn from mistakes.
Improve for the better, live for others.
Do what is right and what is best.
Always be yourself, unique from the rest.

Laugh as if there’s no tomorrow.
Dance as though you’ll never get through.
Love with all your heart and soul.
Sing like you’re on the top of the world.

Forget the money, the root of all evil.
Treasure your loved ones; you’re lucky they’re still there.
Strengthen your faith, live with God.
The best things in life are for free, so why not?!

62, Trials © Alexis M. Vogler

Sometimes you may think you’re alone,
And your feelings make you seem like a clone.
Deep down you are whole,
Not an empty bowl.
Someone loves you,
And all the words they say are true.
Trust in yourself
To be strong
And true and whole and mighty.
This time will pass;
It’s just a trial.
Just walk down this aisle,
Head held high;
You’re strong.

63, Don’t Quit © M. Tarun Prasad

When times are hard, you might stop for a bit,
But it’s not over until the moment you quit.
On a river’s bridge, failures are the planks;
Take one step at a time until you reach its banks.

Don’t give up on your dreams, chase them instead;
You will find, one morning, as you wake up from bed,
That you are the person about whom you dreamed,
And you can reach great heights, impossible though it seemed.

When things go wrong and your back is to the wall,
Try to stand up; no more can you fall.
Life is full of ups and downs; take them in your stride,
You will discover your little star hidden inside.

64, Circle Of Life © Carly Nasch

Life is a carousel, always going forward, never going back.
Existence is a hard thing to keep when you stop trying.
To live a life, you must want to live.
To want to live you must find a way.
When all hope is lost, you must stand tall.
When all others retreat, you must prevail.
You are the conscience inside your head.
You create your own destiny.
Life is a very hard thing to keep
When your life does not always go the way you plan.
Fight for your life and the right to keep dreaming.
If you feel you were gifted, share your gift.
If you feel you were cursed, fix it.
As you get older, your life becomes a challenge.
Who are you?
What do you want in life?
What will you be?
What is your purpose in life?
If you worry, these things will turn into burdens.
But if you hold on to them in the back of your mind,
All of the answers will come in time.
Life is a carousel, always going forward, never going back.
Look to the future, not to the past.

65, I Am Every Woman © Rakhi Nariani

A woman is beauty innate,
A symbol of power and strength.
She puts her life at stake,
She’s real, she’s not fake!

The summer of life she’s ready to see in spring.
She says, “Spring will come again, my dear.
Let me care for the ones who’re near.”
She’s The Woman – she has no fear!

Strong is she in her faith and beliefs.
“Persistence is the key to everything,” says she.
Despite the sighs and groans and moans,
She’s strong in her faith, firm in her belief!

She’s a lioness; don’t mess with her.
She’ll not spare you if you’re a prankster.
Don’t ever try to saw her pride, her self-respect.
She knows how to thaw you, saw you – so beware!

She’s today’s woman. Today’s woman, dear.
Love her, respect her, keep her near…

66, I Will Prevail © Phil Harris

I have been told that I will never exceed.
I have been told that I am living in a dream.
I have been pushed to the side by many of my peers.
I have heard of the struggles that were present before me.
I have heard others speak of the struggles they were presented with.
I have accepted I can’t change everything in my life.
I know the things that can be changed will take time.
I have watched many come and fall.
I have seen those who have raised to riches fall to pennies.
I have started a goal.
I have told myself that I will prevail.

I have seen the evil in life.
I have once been a victim to this life.
I have learned that the only thing that can hold you back in life is living for the past.
I refuse to give up without a try.
I refuse to let anyone tell me that I can’t reach the sky.
I refuse to live for today.
I will always prepare for tomorrow, even though it is not guaranteed.
I will refuse to allow anyone to change my heart.
I believe that God will lead me to a higher place.
I believe that change has been accepted for my life.
I believe that someone is watching over me.
I will prevail.

I apologize for the struggles others may have faced.
I refuse to allow myself wait.
I know that many have never received an apology for the struggles they have faced.
I hope that you accept this from me as I am speaking through them to you.
I know that for many of you this is the reason
You have given in to the belief that you can’t exceed.
I will continue through the obstacles that step in my way.
I will ask for guidance every day.
I will not give up.
I will not give in.
I will not look back.
I will not expect that this is all my life is meant to be.
I will continue.
I will prevail.

67, Stalwart © Abimbola T. Alabi

Vagaries of this life can be
Tough and hard to fathom,
And yet have they conquered me?
Look how far I’ve come.

As I climb up its hill,
Slopes and jagged edges and all,
There are times I slip but still
At no time did I fall.

As I tread along its way
Sometimes I run into bends,
Stumbling blocks on some days
But never into dead ends.

As I sprint down its lane,
Hurdles seem to abound,
Yet the tripping now and again
Still can’t bring me down.

Whims of life that lie in wait
Though I may not have a clue,
Firm is my will, strong is my faith.
My God will see me through.

68, I Am Not A Victim Of Breast Cancer © Laura Barnes

I am not a victim of breast cancer. I am experiencing breast cancer.
I am not dying. I am living.
I am not curing. I am healing and restoring.
I am not fearing. I am loving and trusting.
I am not fighting. I am ceasing all hostility and conflict.
I am not weak or diminished. I am strong and whole and complete.
I am not coping or hoping. I am giving and receiving, creating and conceiving.
I am not crying. I am laughing until the tears run down my leg.
My body is not my enemy. My body is my loving friend, my gentle guide.
My life story is not history. My life story is legendary.
I am not powerless. I am powerful beyond measure.
I am not a drop in the ocean. I am the ocean in a drop.
I am not scattered. I am aligned.
I am not being destroyed. I am building my sacred stature.
I am not trapped or caged. I am as free as a feathery fledgling.
My body is not a muddy puddle of despair. My body is a hallowed temple of spirit.
I am not filled with shadows. I am filled with illuminating light.
I am not a passive puppet. I am an active advocate and enthusiastic participant.
I am not tired and bested. I am tied and invested.
I am not without a voice or meaning or purpose. I am an angelic messenger.
I am not discarded. I am needed.
I am not descending, dragging or faltering. I am consistently inspiring and uplifting.
I am not dwelling in the reflections of the past or the projections of the future. I am joyfully dancing naked in the unfolding mystery of the present moment.
I am not alone or abandoned. I am infinitely connected by the soft, silky vibrational threads of love.
I will not forget. I will remember.
I will not burn out. I will sparkle forever.

69, Fly! © Linette

Open heart and open mind,
On a journey of a lifetime.
Love and respect all,
Get back up when you fall.
Beat your drum like only you can;
You’re already part of the band!
Shoulders back, head held high,
Smile on. Ready…set…fly!

70, The Simple Things © Edgar Guest

I would not be too wise—so very wise
That I must sneer at simple songs and creeds,
And let the glare of wisdom blind my eyes
To humble people and their humble needs.

I would not care to climb so high that I
Could never hear the children at their play,
Could only see the people passing by,
And never hear the cheering words they say.

I would not know too much—too much to smile
At trivial errors of the heart and hand,
Nor be too proud to play the friend the while,
Nor cease to help and know and understand.

I would not care to sit upon a throne,
Or build my house upon a mountain-top,
Where I must dwell in glory all alone
And never friend come in or poor man stop.

God grant that I may live upon this earth
And face the tasks which every morning brings
And never lose the glory and the worth
Of humble service and the simple things.

71, Keep Your Head Up © Matt McFarland

Every time I try and sit and try and make a change,
I always try and think of things that I could rearrange.

And when I find the meaning of life and lessons that are taught,
I’ll take a look back and realize and tell you exactly what I thought.

Life was never meant to be easy,
And everyone has their days
But if you keep your head to the sky you will find your way.

I’ve been through hell and nearly back,
And I still have some growing up to do,
But I need to do this for myself and do what I have to do.

72, Start Fresh © Ruchi Katendra

I wanna start fresh…

and forget this place, the wicked world I live in,
but not forget how glorious and essential it was to me.

Forget the memories that make me weak and sad,
but not forget the memories that are an anchor to my strength.

Forget the people who caused me pain,
but not forget those who were with me in heavy rain.

Forget my past, mistakes, and regrets,
but not forget the lessons I learned from them.

Forget the days when I cried silently, not aloud,
but not forget the same days that make me strong.

Forget the old me, find myself and explore,
and emerge and shine as never before.

This is why
I wanna start fresh.

73, Think Pink! © Ember Griswold

Each month be sure to check your breasts,
To ensure there aren’t any unwanted guests.

Cancer’s next victim I will not be,
Checking yourself is the key.

Lumps and bumps I hope not to find,
Terrible tricks cancer plays on the mind.

A doctor’s visit once a year,
Will help to be sure you’re in the clear.

The battle with cancer many have lost,
Not checking monthly isn’t worth the cost.

October we celebrate those who fought and won,
And searching for a cure is never done.

You could be next if you don’t stop and think,
October…breast cancer awareness…yes…I will think pink!

74, Black Is Beautiful © Sharon D. Brown-Rogers

Black is
Black is as beautiful as a bed of milky white clouds.
Black is as beautiful as soft as a newborn baby hair.
Black is as beautiful as standing up for what is right.
Black is as beautiful as trying on grandmother’s classy hats.
Black is as beautiful as you and I saying Hi!
Black is as beautiful as two sisters walking hand in hand.
Black is as beautiful as wading in a pond on a hot summer day.
Black is as beautiful as you holding your baby for the very first time.
Black is as beautiful as saying I miss you.
Black is as beautiful as going fishing with your dad.
Black is as beautiful as calling your mother on her birthday.
Black is as beautiful as two brothers playing basketball.
Black is as beautiful braiding your sister’s hair.
Black is as beautiful as grandpa taking you to the park.
Black is as beautiful as the sweet sound of a saxophone playing.
Black is as beautiful as eating mom’s Never Fell caramel cake.
Black is as beautiful as the bright rising sun.
Black is as beautiful as a simple kiss placed on the forehead.
Black is as beautiful as lilies on Easter morning.
Black is as beautiful as saying I love you.
Black is me and I AM BEAUTIFUL.

75, The Ride © Sean Parekh

I don’t know where this ride is taking me.
I don’t know when to let go.
All I know is I’m in it for the journey
To give me more and more.

I chase dreams I don’t yet know.
I try to be something I don’t even know.

I look for things I cannot find.
I believe more in my heart than my mind.

I play for things that cannot be won,
I learn to fly before I run.

I make fire on what can’t be burned.
I teach things that cannot be learned.

I don’t know where this ride is taking me.
I don’t know when to let go.
All I know is I’m in it for the journey
To give me more and more.

76, Don’t Give Up © Jeff Bresee

We wait for what we long for.
We long for what we need.
Impatience and anxiety
Give root to errant deed,
Which grows to yield but heartache,
The fruit that poisons trust,
And so to shadow we recede
And hope descends to dust.
But somehow from the ashes
The will to try again
Doth mend the heart
And forge the path
In search of that one friend
Who never will betray us,
Who never will go astray.
But fear still lurks upon the thought
While waiting for that day.
We’ll simply stumble once again,
For we know not who to trust,
Thus thoughts becomes an enemy,
But conquer them we must.
For surely there is someone
Whether “Shining Knight” or “Bride.”
Then all shall have been worth it,
Our “Last Hope” justified.

77, Note To Self © Donna Marie

Be like the willow that bends,
shade that it sends,
peace that it lends.

During the breeze
its leaves will appease
and shift with ease.

Enduring, alluring, maturing.
Be like the willow that bends.

78, From The Heaven Up Above © Mary Wismer

Why can’t we sleep forever
And live inside our dreams,
Sheltered from the heartbreak
That life can sometimes bring.
You could live in a world
Bordered only by your mind
And never have to worry
About running out of time.
You could live out all your dreams,
A life of love and laughter.
Your every desire is fulfilled,
You’d live happily ever after.
You could take the stars
From the heavens up above
Then gift them to the one
That shares your feelings of love.
You could gather every rose
For only their eyes to see.
You would never have to question
Will this love forever be.

79, Just Want A Happy Life © Sadwick

I live with depravity,
Pressure like gravity.
Why can’t they just see
I want to live happily?

Surrounded by poverty,
The cravings of obesity,
Those dreams of reality.
Why can’t they just see
I want to be all I can be?

I try to live with simplicity,
But I get hit with hostility.
People keep telling me
You won’t live happily.

Forget all this negativity.
I’m going against normality,
Living a life of morality
In a world full of brutality.

Spitting out blasphemy,
Using profanity.
Why not be in harmony?
Treat strangers like family.

Going to love unconditionally,
I know my personality.
Don’t need this scrutiny.
I know who I will be,
Just watch and see.

80, Today’s Walk © Kathy Russell

I will walk slowly through this day;
I leave what is not needed behind from yesterday.
I will treasure all the knowledge to move forward.
What I do today will not change or erase the past..
I move on knowing that today I will do differently than before.
If I fail, there will be another tomorrow and a future tomorrow for hope…

81, Life Is A Rose © Talish

Together, we all live different lives,
Whether we are doctors, students, or parents,
That can still make up a continuous field of roses.
A field of roses, shining yellow, red, white and pink,
Which subtly grow in the midst of time,
And day by day, their heads successfully rise,
Slowly reaching the clear blue sky.

But sometimes we may experience some terrible times,
That perhaps are caused by downfalls from the past,
Each downfall is like a falling petal.
Petal after petal, a person we once loved,
Whether it was a friend or a parent,
Suddenly leaves our precious hearts,
Which results in a permanent, painful scar.
But as this growing pain slowly enters
And gradually controls every root of our bodies,
We’ll discover, in the end, that our shadow still remains.

As our body, our stem still stands alone,
Weak, thirsty, gradually falling into the warm earth’s soil.
And just as there were times that put us
In a state of loneliness and despair,
New lives begin to blossom
As the pollen’s internal strength paints them gold.

Life, it is not something of fear nor shame,
But something that will continuously fall and rise.
So, let the lives be remarkable, radiant roses,
Roses that sparkle in the fields forever.

82, Wondering © Miranda

Sometimes people go through life wondering what they’re here for
or who we are supposed to spend our lives with
or even what we will do when we get older.
I know I ask myself those questions all the time,
but why spend life wondering or asking questions?
Life is too short to live wondering why or what.
You need to live your life,
love with your whole heart and don’t hold back,
and laugh until you cry and it hurts to laugh anymore.
Life is here one day and gone the next.
So live like it is your last day to live,
and love like you’ve never been hurt.

83, Homage To My Hips © Lucille Clifton

these hips are big hips
they need space to
move around in.
they don’t fit into little
petty places. these hips
are free hips.
they don’t like to be held back.
these hips have never been enslaved,
they go where they want to go
they do what they want to do.
these hips are mighty hips.
these hips are magic hips.
i have known them
to put a spell on a man and
spin him like a top!

84, Game Of Life © Sarah White

Roll the dice,
Play a new game.
Life for you
Will never be the same.

No looking back,
No aspect of time,
You now have
A new mountain to climb.

Your body seems to stop
Whilst the world keeps going.
With no time to think,
Time still keeps flowing.

Going back to the dice
And the game, you will roll
It’s time to start a new life
Complete with heart and soul.

85, Sorry © Teona Johnson

We are sorry for all that has happened.
It hurt us too,
And together we will mend
Your heart all the way through.

We will help you realize
That you are not alone.
All that you needs is strength, the real prize
And let the true you be shown.

You have not yet noticed how strong you really are.
You could make it too.
With help from us, you could go far.
We can help you make the ultimate breakthrough.

We can help you escape the river of sorrow.
Your heart’s been stained with dirt.
We want to help your bloodstream flow.
We understand your heart’s been hurt.

86, Successful Life © Eugene Grinman

Death is an inevitable fate.
Someday we have to go.
You hope you did
your best in life,
but how are you to know?
It’s not the model of your car
or brand of clothes you wear.
It’s not some fancy, famous name,
sewn in your underwear.
It’s not the square footage of your house
or what you keep inside.
There’s no material you possess
that proves success in life.
It’s everything you sacrificed
and choices you made.
It’s all the problems that you solved,
your lessons from mistakes.
It’s bad times you’ve persevered.
It’s all the fun you’ve had.
It’s any time you’ve ever laughed
and every tear you’ve shed.
It’s any time that you’ve been proud
of others or yourself.
It’s every song you turned up loud,
and every friend you helped.
It’s every wish you ever had.
It’s all your dreams and hopes.
It’s all the books you ever read,
the movies that you’ve seen.
It’s all the stories you told,
The places you’ve been.
It’s every sunset that you caught
and every cent you spent.
It’s anyone you’ve ever loved
who mourns you in the end.
It’s all these things
and so much more,
so don’t stress.
If you lived your life
Wild-n-free,
Then it’s been a success.

87, Even When © LeSandra Hunting

Even when those storm winds are blowing,
I’ll stand and fight them knowing
I’m not alone,
Not on my own.

Even when there’s hatred brewing,
I know what I’ll be doing;
I’ll laugh and smile,
Send it away awhile.

Even when there’s a huge earthquake,
I’ll stand tall and I won’t shake;
Let the pain go,
Let my joy show.

Even when there’s a strong hurricane,
I’ll wade unbending through the pain;
Help those who’ve fallen,
Welcome those who’re calling.

Even when someone’s been deserted,
I know they didn’t deserve it;
Become their friend,
It’s not the end.

88, Chasms And Bridges © Ted L Glines

Whether dancing the circle
or sitting in the pews,
the world is full of wonder
and knee-jerk news.

For those full of spite
and woeful complaining,
the world is full of darkness;
no hope remaining.

Diversity spawns,
attacking spasms,
elevating hate
and deepening the chasms.

You are who you are,
smart as a fox;
why confine yourself
to a bleak little box?

For those full of love
and compassion caring,
the world is full of brightness
and warmth in sharing.

Diversity spawns
a chance to build bridges,
elevating love
and life privileges.

You are who you are,
smart as a fox;
expressing yourself,
you’re out of that box!

We can make this world
a beautiful place
if we toss away frowns
and put smiles on our face.

Abolish that burden
of complaints you’ve been lugging;
begin building bridges
and get used to hugging!

89, I Am No Longer Afraid © Katelyn Ramsaroop

I am no longer afraid to fall,
for I know whenever I am about to,
you’ll be there to catch me.

In your eyes I see a world of happiness,
for now I am no longer afraid of the world on the outside.

Your arms gives me the comfort of belonging,
for now I am no longer afraid of being alone.

Because of you I am no longer afraid.
You have given me the courage to become who I am today.

Your love shows me that you’ll always be by my side.
That is why now I am no longer afraid to love.

90, Like A Volcano © Anisha Joseph

Are you losing faith?
Are you feeling low?
Are you crying out loud,
Craving to be loved?

You are stronger than you know.
Like a volcano,
deep inside you is a fire.
You’ll reach where you desire.

Remember you are precious.
You ought to shine like a gem.
Give off light,
intense and bright.

I know you’re waiting for a chance
and you have been struggling hard.
Don’t give up,
just go on.

Yes, like a volcano,
make an explosion.
Break the barrier.
Remember you are a warrior.

91, Today I Am Afraid © Allissa Thornburg

Today I felt lost.
I couldn’t find Your hand.
I felt so alone,
I just don’t understand.

Today I am afraid,
For tomorrow’s troubles may bring
More pain than today.
I may not last; I’ll continue to pray.

Why do I worry about tomorrow?
Today brings enough fear;
For today was the tomorrow
That seemed all too near.

Today I am afraid,
For tomorrow’s troubles may bring
More pain than today
I may not last; I’ll continue to pray.

I’ll never forget about the past.
My pain will never let me.
Tomorrow is how long it will last.
By then I may be free.

92, Searching For Home © Brittney Hemmands

Her eyes glowed with such ambition,
And her mouth spoke words of love and kindness.
She took pride in wandering;
She walked to find the places her heart longed for.
Oh, the places she searched to find her home.

She made her way through crowded paths
And swam through salted waters.
She danced in gardens
And sweetly kissed strangers.
She ran, she searched, but still couldn’t seem to find.

She failed to realize the lives she touched,
And the hearts she changed.
She failed to realize the home her heart longed for
Would never be found.
That the light she was chasing was not the world’s.

That light, her home,
Had been following her footprints.
She had not realized
She had held it all along.

93, I Hear America Singing © Walt Whitman

I hear America singing, the varied carols I hear,
Those of mechanics, each one singing his as it should be blithe and strong,
The carpenter singing his as he measures his plank or beam,
The mason singing his as he makes ready for work, or leaves off work,
The boatman singing what belongs to him in his boat, the deckhand singing on the steamboat deck,
The shoemaker singing as he sits on his bench, the hatter singing as he stands,
The wood-cutter’s song, the ploughboy’s on his way in the morning, or at noon intermission or at sundown,
The delicious singing of the mother, or of the young wife at work, or of the girl sewing or washing,
Each singing what belongs to him or her and to none else,
The day what belongs to the day—at night the party of young fellows, robust, friendly,
Singing with open mouths their strong melodious songs.

94, Yes, Human. Yes, Love © Sadwick

In the face of many troubles,
Side by side we will stand.
It’s not as though we crumble.
Instead, we gain to understand.

Learning life we see perspectives,
Others different and some the same.
We act in the moment to be reactive.
Emotions are wild or tame.

Love and hate we fight against.
Life and death we struggle with.
Gluttony and hunger we rage against.
War and peace we struggle with.

To be human is to struggle,
Finding love in the depression.
We are that individual
Striving for moral right or religion.

Act without reward or praise.
Do your best no matter the circumstance.
Go the extra mile without a raise.
Give your brother a second chance.

In doing this, you show love.
To love is what is valued among all,
So next time you look above,
Remember we sometimes fall.

Be encouraged in your weaknesses.
Some flaws are others strengths,
So let us give ourselves forgiveness,
For love has no length.

95, Selfless © Nick Maas, Justin Adams

This is about a legacy.
A legacy by a man no one knows.
A legacy left cold.
A legacy left in the dark.
A legacy….. left behind.

No one asks, no one thinks.
No one hears, and no one cares.

A honest man brought down by power.
Power of corruption, power of determination.

People separated by the past,
People fighting, dying for nothing,
Some hiding, wondering what’s next.

Things everyone thinks.
Things no one says.

Brought down for being different,
Brought down for being right.
Wrong for the right reasons,
Right for the wrong reasons.

Truthfully what’s right?
Someone that tells you,
Or what your heart says?

Some things can’t be determined.
Others shouldn’t be.

Fears never faced.
Fears just growing,
Fears eating away at you,
Away at me, away at existence.

Existence that people forgot,
Values left and lost.
No remorse. No dignity,
NO HONOR!!

A life that’s not worth living.
A life that’s not worth dying.

Buried deep in us resides a place of unity.
A place with brothers and sisters,
A place of internal rest,
Rest from crime and violence.
Dishonest people changing their ways,
Not for themselves but for no one.

Existence is always there.
Footprints in the heart,
Footprints in the soul.

A name left behind with a memory,
Forgotten in time by all with the
Lost arch of life

Behind a shielded mirror,
Behind an indestructible horror.

Be one within but be one at all.
Share your dreams, share your fears.

Page by page is turning ash to ash,
Focusing on yourself.
Help your family, while helping mankind,
And you’ll find that life will get lighter.

Dreams, fate, and wishes.
Are these things some believe?
And others demise.

Who are you to judge me?
Who are you to judge anyone?
Such things can’t be determined by one,
But by all in faith and happiness.

A moment of silence for all,
For all who died.
People we don’t know,
People that would die for us,
For what they believe in.

A moment of silence for more,
All the silence of eternity wouldn’t,
Wouldn’t be enough for those……

Selfless people
Of selfless acts

96, Jump 1.0 © Jahleel A. Lowe

Do you think you stand a chance
Diving off into the abyss?
Do you think that you’ll advance
Even without an assist?
Will you learn to find you wings
And travel to the paradise that life brings?
Triumphant in your success,
You can finally rest,
Assured that your future is bright
And you did your best
To see that your seeds take flight.
So why be in fright?
You’re already in a slump.
Why don’t you take a chance
…and just jump?

97, My Morals Define Me © Angie

I have never done drugs and never will.
I don’t give into peer pressure.
I believe that drugs are lame.
Drugs cause you to make irresponsible decisions.
I’d rather be high on life than high on drugs.
I choose not to harm my body with illegal substances.
I do what I want and if this makes me a loser, then so be it.

I am proud to be a virgin.
I’m not ditzy or dumb.
I don’t believe everything I am told.
Abstinence is the key, so I believe.
I am not ready for a child nor disgusting diseases.
My virginity is my sanctuary.
If this makes me a loser, then so be it.

Violence is never the answer.
Physical disputes are pointless and solve nothing.
It is unnecessary and a waste of time.
I shall never stoop down to that level of immaturity.
I’d rather walk away and be the bigger person.
If this makes me a loser, then so be it.

Being a party girl is not who I am.
Partying is not what life is all about.
Life does not revolve around alcohol, drugs, and music.
There are more important things in life than parties.
I have the rest of my life to party;
For now I choose to focus on my future and career.
If this makes me a loser, then so be it.

I don’t need to dress like a hoochie to get attention.
I am classy not trashy.
I’d rather be noticed for my intelligence than my looks.
I choose to have dignity and respect for my body.
I’d rather be liked for who I am than for what I look like.
If this makes me a loser, then so be it.

I am not a follower.
I control my own mind and make my own decisions.
I stand up for what I believe in and defend my opinions.
I’d rather be hated for being myself than liked for someone I am not.
If this makes me a loser, then so be it.

I am unique and one of a kind.
I am who I am
And will never change for anyone.
I will always be me, now and forever.
If this makes me a loser, then maybe I am.

98, My Idol © Gemma

A young man age 21 who I will always look up to.
He plays guitar, popular with the girls,
A friend to all, Strong as an ox,
Not fat yet not thin, completely selfless.
Always helping others who happen to be less fortunate than himself,
Rarely discouraged
Always smiling,
Always laughing.
Why does this very average boy stand above everyone else,
And why do I admire him so much?
Because he does all this in life
And carries on.
He never asks why me,
And he never says he’s had enough,
Though he has had no legs since the day he was born.

Why can’t everybody be like this young man?

99, The Time Is Now © Bettina Van Vaerenbergh

We have but a short time
On this earth,
So value your life
For what it’s really worth.

Your life has purpose.
God sent you on a mission.
To live, to love, to learn –
Is His commission.

The world needs you.
Believe me, it’s true!
Some things need doing
That only you can do.

Character matters;
Be your own person,
Your own original self,
Not someone else’s version.

Develop your talents;
They are unique.
Use your time well;
Listen only to positive critique.

Go after your dreams.
Be bold. Be brave.
Swim against the stream;
It’s more than okay.

The time is now
To find your passion.
Time waits for no one,
So get into action.

To be free of regret
In your old age,
Never ever forget
To fully live today!

100, Never Let Go © Sarah

One by one.
Take one step at a time,
Said her daddy, teaching her to walk,
The little girl only one year old.
She looked up and smiled
And let go of his hand.

Now seventeen years old,
Out driving in the snow.
Driving too fast, hitting a pole.
After getting the news,
Her dad rushes to her.
Hearing the terrible news:
She may never walk again.

One by one, my dear.
Take one step at a time,
Said her daddy teaching
Her to walk again.

She looked up with a smile,
As she did sixteen years ago and
Let go of his hand for the last time.

101, Don’t Quit © Sri Swami Sivananda

When things go wrong as they sometimes will,
When the road you’re trudging seems all uphill,
When the funds are low, and the debts are high,
And you want to smile, but you have’to sigh,
When care is pressing you down a bitRest, if you must, but don’t quit.
Life is queer with its twists and turns,
As everyone of us sometimes learns,
And many a failure turns about
When he might have won had he stuck it out;
Don’t give up though the pace seems slow—
You may succeed with another blow.
Success is failure turned inside out—
The silver tint of the clouds of doubt,
And you never can tell how close you are,
It may be near when it seems so far;
So, stick to the fight when you’re hardest hit—
It’s when things seem worst that you mustn’t quit

102, Others © Sri Swami Sivananda

Lord, help me live from day to day
In such a self-forgetful way,
That even when I kneel to pray,
My prayer shall be for “Others”.

Help me in all the work I do
To ever be sincere and true,
And know, that all I do for You
Must needs be done for “Others”.

And when my work on earth is done,
And my new work in Heavens begun
May I forget the crown I’ve won,
While thinking still of “Others”.

“Others.” Lord, yes, “Others!”
Let this my motto be.
Help me to live for others
That I may live for Thee.

103, Why God Made Friends © Sri Swami Sivananda

God made the world with a heartful of love,
Then He looked down from Heaven above,
And saw that we all need a helping hand,
Someone to share with, who’ll understand.

He made special people to see us through
The glad times and the sad times, too;
A person on whom we can always depend,
Someone we can call a friend.

God made friends so we’ll carry a part
Of His perfect love in all our hearts

104, I Said A Prayer For You Today © Sri Swami Sivananda

I said a prayer for you today
And know God must have heard;
I felt the answer in my heart
Although He spoke not a word.

I didn’t ask for wealth or fame
(I knew you wouldn’t mind);
I asked for priceless treasures rare
Of a more lasting kind.

I prayed that He’d be near to you
At the start of each new day,
To grant you health and blessings fair,
And friends to share your way.

I asked for happiness for you
In all things great and small,
But that you’d know His loving care
I prayed the most of all.

105, If © Rudyard Kipling

If you can keep your head when all about you
Are losing theirs and blaming it on you,
If you can trust yourself when all men doubt you,
But make allowance for their doubting too,
If you can wait and not be tired of waiting,
Or being lied about don’t deal in lies;
Or being hated, don’t give way to hating,
Yet don’t look too good nor talk too wise;

If you can dream and not make dreams your master.
If you can think and not make thoughts your aim,
If you can meet with Triumph and Disaster,
And treat those two imposters just the same,
If you can bear to hear the truth you’ve spoken,
Twisted by knaves to make a trap for fools,

Or watch the things you gave your life to broken,
And stoop and build’em up with worn-out tools;
If you can make one heap of all your winnings,
And risk it on one turn of pitch and toss,
And lose and start again at your beginnings,
And never breathe a word about your loss,
If you can force your heart and nerve and sinew,
To serve your turn long after they have gone,
And so hold on when there is nothing in you,
Except the will which says to them, “Hold on”;

If you can mix with crowds and keep your virtue,
Or, walk with kings, nor lose the common touch;
If neither foes nor loving friends can hurt you,
If all men count with you, but none too much;
If you can fill the unforgiving minute
With 60 seconds’ worth of distance run,
Then yours is the world and everything that’s in it,
And what’s more—you’ll be a Man, My son!

106, The Difference © Sri Swami Sivananda

I got up early one morning
And rushed right into the day;
I had so much to accomplish
That I didn’t have time to pray.
Problems just tumbled about me,
And heavier came each task;
“Why doesn’t God help me?”
I wondered.
He answered, “You didn’t ask.”
I wanted to see joy and beauty,
But the day toiled on gray and bleak;
I wondered why God didn’t show me.
He said, “But you didn’t seek.”
I tried to come into God’s presence;
I used all my keys in the lock.
God gently and lovingly chided,
“My child, you didn’t knock.”
I woke up early this morning,
And paused before entering the day;
I had so much to accomplish
That I had to take time to pray

107, A Winner’s Creed © Sri Swami Sivananda

If you think you are beaten, you are;
If you think you dare not, you don’t,
If you’d like to win, but think you can’t,
It’s almost a cinch you won’t.
If you think you’ll lose, you’re lost,
For out in the world we find
Success begins with a person’s faith;
It’s all in the state of mind.
Life’s battles don’t always go
To the stronger or faster hand;
They go to the one who trusts in God
And always thinks “I can.”

108, What They Live © Sri Swami Sivananda

If a child lives with criticism,
He learns to condemn.
If a child lives with hostility,
He learns to fight.
If a child lives with ridicule,
He learns to be shy.
If a child lives with shame,
He learns to feel guilty.
If a child lives with tolerance,
He learns to be patient.
If a child lives with encouragement,
He learns confidence.
If a child lives with praise,
He learns to appreciate.
If a child lives with fairness,
He learns justice.
If a child lives with security,
He learns to have faith.
If a child lives with approval,
He learns to like himself.
If a child lives with acceptance
and friendship, he learns
to find love in the world

109, If I Can © Sri Swami Sivananda

If I can throw a single ray of light,
Across the darkened pathway of another;
If I can aid some soul to clearer sight
Of light and duty and thus bless my brother;
If I can wipe from any human cheek a tear
I shall not have, then, lived in vain while here.
If I can guide some erring to truth
Inspire within his heart a sense of duty;
If I can plant within the soul of a rosy plant
A sense of light, a love of truth and beauty;
If I can teach one man that God and Heaven are near;
I shall not have, then, lived in vain while here.
If from my mind I can banish doubt and fear
And keep my life attuned to truth, love and kindness;
If I can scatter light and hope and cheer
And help and remove the curse of mental blindness;
If I can make joy more, more hope, less pain
I shall not have, lived in vain while here.
If by life’s road side I can plant a tree
Beneath whose shade some wearied head may rest
Though I may never share its shade or see
Its beauty I shall yet be truly blessed
Though no one knows my name.

110, Psalm Of Life © Longfellow

Tell me not, in mournful numbers,
Life is but an empty dream!
For the soul is dead that slumbers,
And things are not what they seem.

Life is real! Life is earnest!
And the grave is not its goal;
Dust thou art, to dust returnest,
Was not spoken of the soul.

Not enjoyment, and not sorrow,
Is our destined end or way;
But to act, that each tomorrow
Find us farther than today.

Art is long, and Time is fleeting,
And our hearts, though stout and brave,
Still, like muffled drums, are beating
Funeral marches to the grave.

In the world’s broad field battle,
In the bivouac of life,
Be not like dumb, driven cattle!
Be a hero in the strife!

Trust no Future, howe’er pleasant!
Let the dead Past bury its dead!
Act—act in the living Present!
Heart within, and God o‘erhead.

Lives of great men all reminds us
We can make our lives sublime,
And, departing, leave behind us
Footprints on the sands of time;

Footprints, that perhaps another,
Sailing o’er life’s solemn main,
A furlorn and shipwrecked brother,
Seeing, shall take heart again.

Let us, then, be up and doing,
With a heart for any fate;
Still achieving, still pursuing,
Learn to labour and to wait.

111, Prayer © St. Francis of Assisi

Lord, make me an instrument of Thy Peace,
Where there is hatred, let me sow love;
Where there is injury, let me sow pardon;
Where there is doubt, let me sow faith;
Where there is despair, let me sow hope;
Where there is discord, let me sow unity;
Where there is darkness, let me sow light and
Where there is sadness, let me sow joy.

O Divine Master,
Grant that I may not seek so much
To be consoled as to console;
To be understood as to understand;
To be loved as to love;
For it is in giving that we receive
It is in pardoning that we are pardoned;
And it is in dying to the little self
That we are born to eternal life.

→ Read more: Poems That Can Change Your Life or Best Poems About Personal Growth