If I should live a thousand years
Grow stooped and bent with age,
I'm sure I'd find some good to do,
Which saying, is an old adage. But if I should find nothing more to do
Than simply being kind,
I'd do that with greatest pride
Especially to the weak and blind. I'd smile upon each little child
That chanced to come my way,
I'd tell them of the blessings
That are shown us day by day. I'd tell them of the brightest spots
The leaves, the birds, and flowers,
Of fleecy clouds, of starry skies
Of rainbow tinted showers. I'd lend a hand to help the weak
And cheer them with a smile,
I'd tell them that the future holds
Something for them worthwhile. I'd lend my eyes to help the blind
By reading all the news,
Or tell them of natural things
To keep away the blues. I'd tell them how God loved the world
And would compassion give,
To all who loved and trusted him,
Who tried his law to live. I'd try to be kind to every one
I met upon the way,
So when God called me from this world
I'd have a place to stay.
Della Hodgson James
http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/if-i-should-live/
