In Pursuit of Poetry

March 15 - Edgar Guest - Have You Earned Your Tomorrow

March 15, 2018
Now this poem looks at the power of gratitude, for me. Do I make the world a better place by spreading kindness or do I tear it apart with my scorn? I would like to think I spread kindness, even if they are done in little acts and moments... things that bring a smile and connect in a way we humans need.

Have You Earned Your Tomorrow

By Edgar Guest

Is anybody happier because you passed his way?
Does anyone remember that you spoke to him today?
This day is almost over, and its toiling time is through;
Is there anyone to utter now a kindly word of you?

Did you give a cheerful greeting to the friend who came along?
Or a churlish sort of "Howdy" and then vanish in the throng?
Were you selfish pure and simple as you rushed along the way,
Or is someone mighty grateful for a deed you did today?

Can you say tonight, in parting with the day that's slipping fast,
That you helped a single brother of the many that you passed?
Is a single heart rejoicing over what you did or said;
Does a man whose hopes were fading now with courage look ahead?

Did you waste the day, or lose it, was it well or sorely spent?
Did you leave a trail of kindness or a scar of discontent?
As you close your eyes in slumber do you think that God would say,
You have earned one more tomorrow by the work you did today?

Source: https://www.familyfriendpoems.com/poem/have-you-earned-your-tomorrow-by-edgar-al...

I quite like this poem. A simple, yet powerful message. I was not sure what to expect with a title like that, but taking the time to read it made me smile. It was just lovely. Let us all go out and earn our tomorrows as we spread a little kindness.

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