Life + 

To see our pathway strewn with flowers, + 

While ’neath their sunny hue, + 

We fear that many a rankling care + 

Lies hidden from our view; + 

To cull the flowers, to love their bloom, + 

A season to enjoy; + 

To mark the blast that rudely comes + 

Their beauties to destroy:⁠— + 

Such is our life. How full of change! + 

How much of hope or fears! + 

Scarce on the cheek is seen the smile, + 

Ere it is lost in tears. + 

To see the cherished things of earth, + 

On which we placed the heart, + 

Fade, one by one, before our eyes, + 

And silently depart;⁠— + 

This is our life⁠—and who can tell + 

What future hours may bring? + 

What hopes will cheer the panting heart, + 

While close to earth we cling? + 

The morning of our days are bright, + 

And could the vision last⁠— + 

But ’tis forbid⁠—oh! changeful life, + 

How soon the dream is past! + 