A little kingdom I possess <br />where thoughts and feelings dwell, <br />And very hard I find the task <br />of governing it well; <br />For passion tempts and troubles me, <br />A wayward will misleads, <br />And selfishness its shadow casts <br />On all my words and deeds. <br /> <br />How can I learn to rule myself, <br />to be the child I should, <br />Honest and brave, nor ever tire <br />Of trying to be good? <br />How can I keep a sunny soul <br />To shine along life's way? <br />How can I tune my little heart <br />To sweetly sing all day? <br /> <br />Dear Father, help me with the love <br />that casteth out my fear; <br />Teach me to lean on thee, and feel <br />That thou art very near, <br />That no temptation is unseen <br />No childish grief too small, <br />Since thou, with patience infinite, <br />Doth soothe and comfort all. <br /> <br />I do not ask for any crown <br />But that which all may win <br />Nor seek to conquer any world <br />Except the one within. <br />Be thou my guide until I find, <br />Led by a tender hand, <br />Thy happy kingdom in myself <br />And dare to take command.<br /><br />Louisa May Alcott<br /><br />http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/my-kingdom/
