You who are strong, and do not know the need <br />That weaker spirits feel, but do not plead - <br />The need to lean on someone who is strong - <br />Oh! see you give their silent want good heed. <br /> <br />Be not so busy with your own career, <br />However noble, that you cannot hear <br />The sighs of those who look to you for help, <br />For this is purchasing success too dear. <br /> <br />Many strong men and good, I see, so bent <br />Upon their own souls' high development <br />That they have only scorn or tolerance <br />To give to those who are not thus intent. <br /> <br />Yet, who can answer that it is not true <br />That those weak souls who spare, where blame is due, <br />And smile, because too gentle to be stern, <br />Are not more needed in the world than you?<br /><br />Alice Duer Miller<br /><br />http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/an-exhortation-to-gentleness/
