I Often Wonder Why‘ Tis So

Some find work where some find rest,

And so the weary world goes on:

I sometimes wonder which is best;

The answer comes when life is gone.

Some eyes sleep when some eyes wake,

And so the dreary night-hours go;

Some hearts beat where some hearts break;

I often wonder why‘ tis so.

Some wills faint where some wills fight,

Some love the tent, and some the field;

I often wonder who are right —

The ones who strive, or those who yield?

Some hands fold where other hands

Are lifted bravely in the strife;

And so thro’ ages and thro’ lands

Move on the two extremes of life.

Some feet halt where some feet tread,

In tireless march, a thorny way;

Some struggle on where some have fled;

Some seek when others shun the fray.

Some swords rust where others clash,

Some fall back where some move on;

Some flags furl where others flash

Until the battle has been won.

Some sleep on while others keep

The vigils of the true and brave:

They will not rest till roses creep

Around their name above a grave.