The Path to Lasting Peace

If it is your deepest longing to enter the dominions of peace,
Seek not the vanity of possessions, nor cling to any passing shade.
Sorrows and afflictions, each in its turn,
Cast from your path, and leave them to the past.

Before the blows and snares that line the road,
Reveal, in full, the strength of goodness dwelling in your soul.
And when evil closes round you, or wounds you, you shall still prevail,
Just as the sun, in silence, scatters frost and mist away.

Pardon all misunderstanding, and bless, throughout your days,
The lips that kiss you, then soon after turn to scorn.
Let self-perfection be your aim, and let service be your delight.

From the splendor of the stars to the meekness of the dust,
Behold the law of love that leads to everlasting triumph:
To give, to serve, to mend, to labor, and to forget.