Classic Poem

Darning stockings
For restless feet,
Scrubbing faces
To lily-sweet!
Teaching Bible
And catechism,
Soothing bruises
And healing schism.
Smooth and smoother,
Linger nor jerk;
That's our Mother —
The woman's work!

Raising roses,
Burying smarts,
Hiving sunshine
Under our hearts!
Bravest spirit
Beneath the dome!
Dastards falter
When she says " Come! "
Smooth and smoother,
" Nor haste nor rest! "
Beautiful Mother,
Whom God hath blest.

Tender, most tender!
Child, take heed!
Rare her splendor
Of thought and deed.
Mild as moonlight
In softest quiver,
To shine with the stars
Forever and ever!
Smooth and smoother —
When life hath flown —
The wings of " Mother "
Still woo our own.