The Poetry Corner

Do your Best and Leave the Rest.

By John Hartley

As through life you journey onward Many a hill you'll have to climb; Many a rough and dang'rous pathway, You'll encounter time and time. Now and then a gleam of sunshine, Will bring hope to cheer your breast; Then press onward, - ever trusting, - Do your best and leave the rest. Though your progress may be hindered, By false friends or bitter foes; And the goal for which you're striving, Seems so far away, - who knows? You may yet have strength to reach it, E'er the sun sinks in the west; Ever striving, - still undaunted; - Do your best and leave the rest. If you fail, as thousands must do, You will still have cause for pride; You will have advanced much further, Than if you had never tried. Never falter, but remember, Life is not a foolish jest; You all are in the fight to win it; - Do your best and leave the rest. If at last your strength shall fail you, And your struggles have proved vain; There is One who will sustain you; - Soothe your sorrow, - ease your pain, He has seen your earnest striving, And your efforts shall be blest; For He knows, that you, though failing, Did your best, - He'll do the rest.