If you've tried and have not won,
Never stop for trying;
All that's good and great is done
Just by patient trying.
Though young birds, in flying, fall,
Still their wings grow stronger,
And the next time they can keep
Up a little longer.
Though the sturdy oak has known
Many a wind that bowed her,
She has risen again and grown
Loftier and prouder.
If by easy work you beat,
Who the more will prize you?
Gaining victory from defeat,
That's the test that tries you.
by Phoebe Gary
