A Lesson From History
Some inspirational poems convey a great lesson taken from past actions. In A Lesson From History we learn about how perseverance can teach us to succeed and is especially inspiring for anyone who has been discouraged over what may seem to be unmovable roadblocks in your life.
As George Washington showed us, with clear vision and lots of courage, you can accomplish what seems to be the impossible. There is always a way!
A Lesson From History
by Joseph Morris
Everything's easy after it's done;
Every battle's a "cinch" that's won;
Every problem is clear that's solved--
The earth was round when it "revolved!"
But Washington stood amid grave doubt
With enemy forces camped about;
He could not know how he would fare
Till "after" he'd crossed the Delaware.
Though the river was full of ice
He did not think about it twice,
But started across in the dead of night,
The enemy waiting to open the fight.
Likely feeling pretty blue,
Being human, same as you,
But he was brave amid despair,
And Washington crossed the Delaware!
So when you're with trouble beset,
And your spirits are soaking wet,
When all the sky with clouds is black,
Don't lie down upon your back
And look at "them". Just do the thing;
Though you are choked, still try to sing.
If times are dark, believe them fair,
And you will cross the Delaware!
~Joseph Morris (1889-1947)
Joseph Morris Bachelor (also known as Joseph Morris) was an American author, poet, editor and educator.
Educated at Miami University and Harvard University, he taught English at Cornell College in Iowa (1913-1917), then moved on to work as an editor for the Century Company in New York City where he was definitions editor of "The New Century Dictionary" in two volumes.
He was a popular and rigorous professor teaching Shakespeare and a course he developed called "Words." Upon his death in 1947, he bequeathed over 400 acres of woodland and streams, including Harker's Run, to Miami University (known today as the Bachelor Wildlife and Game Reserve).
More Poems by Morris
One Step At a Time
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