If..,

If you could plan the way of life.
There'd be no tears, no loss,
But then how should we ever learn
The meaning of the Cross?
Now learn to bear our burdens
With courage and good cheer?
No need to do a kindly deed
If all were perfect here.

If everyone had everything,
What need of sacrifice?
Would things have any value
If they did not have a price?
Of troubles never came our way,
How peaceful life would be,
But then perhaps we'd never learn
To face reality.

If nothing ever interfered
With life's calm easy flow,
How should we learn to brave the storm?
How would the Spirit grow?
If all were well, what need to serve,
To love and sympathize?
The things that make us humble
Are the things that make us wise.

Found In My Grandmother's Things