Three Old Saws

IF the world seems cold to you,Kindle fires to warm it!Let their comfort hide from viewWinters that deform it.Hearts as frozen as your ownTo that radiance gather.You will soon forget to moan"Ah I the cheerless weather!"

If the world 's a wilderness,Go, build houses in it!Will it help your lonelinessOn the winds to din it?Raise a hut, however slight;Weeds and brambles smother;And to roof and meal inviteSome forlorner brother.

If the world 's a vale of tears,Smile, till rainbows span it!Breathe the love that life endears,Clear of clouds to fan it.Of your gladness lend a gleamUnto souls that shiver;Show them how dark Sorrow's streamBlends with Hope's bright river.