Speak gently! -- It is better far
To rule by love, than fear --
Speak gently -- let not harsh words mar
The good we might do here!
Speak gently! -- Love doth whisper low
The vows that true hearts bind;
And gently Friendship's accents flow;
Affection's voice is kind.
Speak gently to the little child!
Its love be sure to gain;
Teach it in accents soft and mild: --
It may not long remain.
Speak gently to the young, for they
Will have enough to bear --
Pass through this life as best they may,
'T is full of anxious care!
Speak gently to the aged one,
Grieve not the care-worn heart;
The sands of life are nearly run,
Let such in peace depart!
Speak gently, kindly, to the poor;
Let no harsh tone be heard;
They have enough they must endure,
Without an unkind word!
Speak gently to the erring -- know,
They may have toiled in vain;
Perchance unkindness made them so;
Oh, win them back again!
Speak gently! -- He who gave his life
To bend man's stubborn will,
When elements were in fierce strife,
Said to them, 'Peace, be still.'
Speak gently! -- 't is a little thing
Dropped in the heart's deep well;
The good, the joy, which it may bring,
Eternity shall tell.
like it this is one that i might want to read again, , later in life
Beautiful, it is indeed a poem to be read daily, by all. May I add a last few lines of A Credo to join hands with yours. Teach your soul Loving Kindness to all As credo! Panmelys 2014 Peace be with you for sharing such glowing words as an example to cherish. Kindly.
Excellent poem with an excellent message. Deserves a much higher rating than the 6.5 out of ten given by the 51 voters so far!
I learn this poem in school but lose the words. I thank you for publishing it. I search and I search but could not find it. I was 12 years old when I learn it now I am 70 years thank you for posting it.
Actually I can’t understand that why does the poet says that affection voice is kind
I am so amazed at this magically written poem. I'll give an 8 rating.
This poem has not been translated into any other language yet.
I would like to translate this poem
beautiful! wonderful message too. i love it!