If I had youth I'd bid the world to try me; <br /> I'd answer every challenge to my will. <br />And though the silent mountains should defy me, <br /> I'd try to make them subject to my skill. <br />I'd keep my dreams and follow where they led me; <br /> I'd glory in the hazards which abound. <br />I'd eat the simple fare privations fed me, <br /> And gladly make my couch upon the ground. <br /> <br />If I had youth I'd ask no odds of distance, <br /> Nor wish to tread the known and level ways. <br />I'd want to meet and master strong resistance, <br /> And in a worth-while struggle spend my days. <br />I'd seek the task which calls for full endeavor; <br /> I'd feel the thrill of battle in my veins. <br />I'd bear my burden gallantly, and never <br /> Desert the hills to walk on common plains. <br /> <br />If I had youth no thought of failure lurking <br /> Beyond to-morrow's dawn should fright my soul. <br />Let failure strike- it still should find me working <br /> With faith that I should some day reach my goal. <br />I'd dice with danger- aye!- and glory in it; <br /> I'd make high stakes the purpose of my throw. <br />I'd risk for much, and should I fail to win it, <br /> I would not ever whimper at the blow. <br /> <br />If I had youth no chains of fear should bind me; <br /> I'd brave the heights which older men must shun. <br />I'd leave the well-worn lanes of life behind me, <br /> And seek to do what men have never done. <br />Rich prizes wait for those who do not waver; <br /> The world needs men to battle for the truth. <br />It calls each hour for stronger hearts and braver. <br /> This is the age for those who still have youth!<br /><br />Edgar Albert Guest<br /><br />http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/if-i-had-youth/
