The Learner

I've learned--Of all the friends I've won Dame Nature is the best, And to her like a child I run Craving her mother breast To comfort me in soul distress, And in green glade to find Far from the world's unloveliness Pure peace of mind. I've learned--the worth of simple ways, And though I've loved to roam, I know the glow of hearth ablaze, The bliss of coming home. I'd rather wear old clothes than new, I'd rather walk than drive, And as my wants are oh so few I joy to be alive. I've learned--that happiness is all, A sweetness of the mind; And would you purge your heart of gall,-- Try being kind. Then when some weaker one you aid, Believe it true 'Tis God Himself will make the grade Less hard for you.