That woman is a success
Who has lived well,
Laughed often and loved much;
Who has gained the respect of intelligent
men and the love of children;
Who has filled her niche and
accomplished her task;
Who leaves the world better than she found it,
Whether by an improved poppy,
A perfect poem, or a rescued soul;
Who has never lacked appreciation of
Earth’s beauty or failed to express it;
Who looked for the best in others.
And gave the best she had.
Bessie Anderson Stanley (written 1904)
