Speak kindly ! for our days are all too few For angry strife ; There is deep meaning, if we only knew, In our brief life. No nobler mission can be ours, if we knew, A pang can stay ; Or if, amidst the rush of tears we see, Wipe one away.
2. Speak kindly ! gracious words God-sent, God-given, Are never lost ; They come all fragrant with the breath of Heaven, Yet nothing cost, Kind words are like kind acts----they steal along Life's hidden springs ; Then, in the darkest storm, some little song The sad heart sings.
3. Speak kindly, graciously; for all around Are pains and smarts ; The very air is full of moans and sound Of breaking hearts. Oh, seek to bind them up at once, as did Thy gracious Lord ; Then surely will His hand bestow on thee A bright reward.