The end of life is sure,
But do not sigh;
For deeds true, good, and pure,
Forevermore endure,
They do not die.
When bodies fall to dust
Our weary hands will rest,
Our life’s work yet will live,
We need not grieve.
Life’s every throb and thrill
Of ages past
Remains for good or ill
A living presence still
That aye will last.
Our fathers have not gone―
Their thoughts are living on,
Their sentiments warm our heart,
Their souls ne’er part.
A struggle is our life,
But death brings peace.
Our labors in the strife,
Our sorrows ever rife,
Will only cease
When all our vanities
And life’s inanities
Are giv’n with our last t
Over to Death.
The school of life is stern;
Toil is our lot.
But those who aspire and learn
Can make their souls etern,
They tremble not.
A life is quickly past
But all its good shall last.
The examples which we give
Will always live.
Those do not live in vain
Who leave behind
A memory without stain,
Or the least humble gain
Unto mankind.
Through deeds which they have done
The world has better grown.
A blessing they will be
Eternally.