Our Choice

Not what we have, but what we use,

Not what we see, but what we choose;

These are the things that mar or bless,

The sum of human happiness.

The thing nearby, not that afar,

Not what we seem, but what we are;

These are the things that make or break,

That give the heart its joy or ache.

Not what seems fair, but what is true,

Not what we dream, but the good we do;

These are the things that shine like gems,

Like stars in fortune diadems.

Not as we take, but as we give,

Not as we pray, but as we live;

These are the things that lake for peace,

Both now and after time shall cease.