Life (Bronte Version)

<SPAN name="startofbook"></SPAN> <h2> LIFE. </h2> <p> Life, believe, is not a dream<br/> So dark as sages say;<br/> Oft a little morning rain<br/> Foretells a pleasant day.<br/> Sometimes there are clouds of gloom,<br/> But these are transient all;<br/> If the shower will make the roses bloom,<br/> O why lament its fall?<br/> Rapidly, merrily,<br/> Life's sunny hours flit by,<br/> Gratefully, cheerily<br/> Enjoy them as they fly!<br/> What though Death at times steps in,<br/> And calls our Best away?<br/> What though sorrow seems to win,<br/> O'er hope, a heavy sway?<br/> Yet Hope again elastic springs,<br/> Unconquered, though she fell;<br/> Still buoyant are her golden wings,<br/> Still strong to bear us well.<br/> Manfully, fearlessly,<br/> The day of trial bear,<br/> For gloriously, victoriously,<br/> Can courage quell despair!<br/></p> <div style="break-after:column;"></div><br />