Montaigne once wrote, “the advantage of living is not measured by length, but by use.” I tend to agree.

May We Be Useful in Your Kingdom, Lord

Many have lived long upon this
dwelling-place called earth,
yet the usefulness of all their hours
is little since their birth.

Other's days are numbered few,
who despite their shortened fate,
use well the precious time they have;
a difference they create!

Though seen and unseen hands conspire
to steer us through the strife,
it lies within each one of us
to make the most of life.

So children fight the urge to drift;
chart your course with skill.
Do the things that matter most;
never lose your will.

The journey is a goal itself
whose length we cannot guess,
so usefulness must be our aim,
no more and nothing less.

Be useful in the practice then
of hope and faith and love.
These are those which matter most
on earth and heaven above.

Then having lived out all your days,
though numerous or small,
take comfort in the knowledge, that
in life, you gave your all!

Next poem: For Mama

Author: Jerry Dan Deutschendorf
from: Red Earth Whisperings
Part III: Family and Friends