Classic Poem

You're starting, my boy, on life's journey,
Along the grand highway of life,
You'll meet with a thousand temptations,
Each city with evil is rife.
This world is a stage of excitement—
There's danger wherever you go;
But if you are tempted in weakness,
Have courage, my boy, to say, No!

The bright, ruby wine may be offered—
No matter how tempting it be,
From poison it stings like an adder,
My boy, have courage to flee.
The billiard saloons are inviting,
Decked out in their tinsel and show,
But if you are tempted to enter—
Have courage, my boy, to say, No.

In courage alone lies your safety,
When you the long journey begin;
Your trust in the Heavenly Father
Will keep you unspotted from sin.
Temptation will keep on increasing
As streams from a rivulet flow;
But if you'd be true to your manhood,
Have courage, my boy, to say, No!