Speak gently
Speak gently! It is better far to rule by love than
fear;
Speak gently! Let no harsh words mar the good we might do
here.
Speak gently! For love whispers low the vows that true hearts
bind;
And gently friendship's accents flow -- affection's voice is
kind.
Speak gently to the young, for they will have enough to
bear.
Pass through this life as best they may, it's full of anxious
care.
Speak gently to the aged one, grieve not the careworn
heart;
The sands of time are nearly run, let each in peace
depart.
Speak gently to the erring; they may have toiled in
vain.
Perhaps unkindness made them so -- Oh, win them back
again!
Speak gently. He who gave his life to bend man's stubborn
will,
When elements were in fierce strife, said to them, "Peace! Be
still."
Speak gently. 'Tis a little thing dropped in the heart's deep
well.
The good, the joy, which it may bring -- eternity will
tell.
