I Would be True

I would be true, for there are those who trust me;

I would be pure, for there are those who care;

I would be strong, for there is much to suffer;

I would be brave, for there is much to dare.

I would be friend of all - the foe, the friendless;

I would be giving and forget the gift;

I would be humble, for I know my weakness;

I would look up - and laugh - and love - and lift.

HOWARD ARNOLD WALTER (1883 - 1918)