RESOLVE.

Build on resolve, and not upon regret,

The structure of thy future. Do not grope

Among the shadows of old sins, but let

Thine own soul's light shine on the path of hope

And dissipate the darkness. Waste no tears

Upon the blotted record of lost years,

But turn the leaf and smile, oh, smile, to see

The fair white pages that remain for thee.

Prate not of thy repentance. But believe

The spark divine dwells in thee: let it grow.

That which the upreaching spirit can achieve

The grand and all-creative forces know;

They will assist and strengthen as the light

Lifts up the acorn to the oak tree's height.

Thou hast but to resolve, and lo! God's whole

Great universe shall fortify thy soul.