<h2><SPAN name="poem12"></SPAN>WOMANHOOD</h2>
<p class="poetry">She must be honest, both in thought and
deed,<br/>
Of generous impulse, and above all greed;<br/>
Not seeking praise, or place, or power, or pelf,<br/>
But life’s best blessings for her higher self,<br/>
Which means the best for all.<br/>
She must have faith,<br/>
To make good friends of Trouble, Pain, and Death,<br/>
And understand their message.<br/>
She should be<br/>
As redolent with tender sympathy<br/>
As is a rose with fragrance.<br/>
Cheerfulness<br/>
Should be her mantle, even though her dress<br/>
May be of Sorrow’s weaving.<br/>
On her face<br/>
A loyal nature leaves its seal of grace,<br/>
And chastity is in her atmosphere.<br/>
Not that chill chastity which seems austere<br/>
(Like untrod snow-peaks, lovely to behold<br/>
Till once attained—then barren, loveless, cold);<br/>
But the white flame that feeds upon the soul<br/>
And lights the pathway to a peaceful goal.<br/>
A sense of humour, and a touch of mirth,<br/>
To brighten up the shadowy spots of earth;<br/>
And pride that passes evil—choosing good.<br/>
All these unite in perfect womanhood.</p>
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