Essentials

Roll up your sleeves, lad, and begin;

Disarm misfortune with a grin;

Let discontent not wag your chin

Let gratitude.

Don't try to find things all askew;

Don't be afraid of what is new;

Nor banish as unsound, untrue,

A platitude.

If folks don't act as you would choose

Remember life is varied; use -

Your common sense; don't get the blues;

Show latitude.

Sing though in quavering sharps and flats,

Love though the folk you love are cats,

Work though you're worn and weary

that's the attitude.

St. Clair Adams