Better than gold is a conscience clear,
Gained through toiling in a humble sphere:
Doubly blest with heart and health,
Worries not of worldly wealth.
Lowly living–Lofty thought;
Wisdom is the scholar’s lot.
Better than gold, is a peaceful home
Where the fireplace oven roars.
Shrine of love and heaven of life,
Hallowed by mother, sister, or wife.
Blessings never bought or sold,
Centered there are better than gold.
A healthy body, a mind at ease,
And simple pleasures that always please;
A heart that can feel for a neighbor’s woe
And share in all their joys
With sympathies large enough to enfold –
is better than all gold.
Better than gold is an honest sleep,
Balming human souls with slumbers deep…
Better than gold.
-adapted from Alexander Smart (1796-1866)
Written for:
Donald Brineger