I'd like to give 'em all they ask—it hurts to have to answer, 'No,' <br />And say they cannot have the things they tell me they are wanting so; <br />Yet now and then they plead for what I know would not be good to give <br />Or what I can't afford to buy, and that's the hardest hour I live. <br />They little know or understand how happy I would be to grant <br />Their every wish, yet there are times it isn't wise, or else I can't. <br />And sometimes, too, I can't explain the reason when they question why <br />Their pleadings for some passing joy it is my duty to deny. <br />I only know I'd like to see them smile forever on life's way; <br />I would not have them shed one tear or ever meet a troubled day. <br />And I would be content with life and gladly face each dreary task, <br />If I could always give to them the little treasures that they ask. <br />Sometimes we pray to God above and ask for joys that are denied, <br />And when He seems to scorn our plea, in bitterness we turn aside. <br />And yet the Father of us all, Who sees and knows just what is best, <br />May wish, as often here we wish, that He could grant what we request.<br /><br />Edgar Albert Guest<br /><br />http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/denial-66/
