Poem: “The Three Best Things” by Henry Van Dyke

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American Literature – Children Books – American Poetry – Henry Van Dyke – Poems by Henry Van Dyke
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The Three Best Things

I

WORK

Let me but do my work from day to day, In field or forest, at the desk or loom, In roaring market-place or tranquil room;Let me but find it in my heart to say,When vagrant wishes beckon me astray, “This is my work; my blessing, not my doom; Of all who live, I am the one by whomThis work can best be done in the right way.”

Then shall I see it not too great, nor small, To suit my spirit and to prove my powers; Then shall I cheerful greet the labouring hours,And cheerful turn, when the long shadows fallAt eventide, to play and love and rest,Because I know for me my work is best.

II

LOVE

Let me but love my love without disguise, Nor wear a mask of fashion old or new, Nor wait to speak till I can hear a clue,Nor play a part to shine in others’ eyes,Nor bow my knees to what my heart denies; But what I am, to that let me be true, And let me worship where my love is due,And so through love and worship let me rise.

For love is but the heart’s immortal thirst To be completely known and all forgiven, Even as sinful souls that enter Heaven:So take me, dear, and understand my worst,And freely pardon it, because confessed,And let me find in loving thee, my best.

III

LIFE

Let me but live my life from year to year, With forward face and unreluctant soul; Not hurrying to, nor turning from, the goal;Not mourning for the things that disappearIn the dim past, nor holding back in fear From what the future veils; but with a whole And happy heart, that pays its tollTo Youth and Age, and travels on with cheer.

So let the way wind up the hill or down, O’er rough or smooth, the journey will be joy: Still seeking what I sought when but a boy,New friendship, high adventure, and a crown,My heart will keep the courage of the quest,And hope the road’s last turn will be the best.

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American Literature – Children Books – American Poetry – Henry Van Dyke – Poems by Henry Van Dyke

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The Three Best Things

I

WORK

II

LOVE

III

LIFE

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