In light of our current polarized environment, I wanted to share one of my favorite poems titled “Achievement.”
Written by 19th-century author Robert Louis Stevenson, famous for penning classic books such as “Treasure Island”, “Kidnapped” and “Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde” – his poems were another one of his passions.
I’ve taken the liberty of attempting to make his words gender-neutral by adding (woman, she & her) in parenthesis where appropriate – I’m sure Mr. Stevenson would approve.
Read his poem, take a few minutes to reflect, and then share it with family and friends – and have a wonderful Thanksgiving!!
Achievement
That man (woman) is a success who has lived well, laughed often, and loved much;
Who has gained the respect of intelligent men (women) and the love of children;
Who has filled his (her) niche and accomplished his (her) task;
Who leaves the world a better place than he (she) found it, whether by improved poppy, a perfect poem or a rescued soul;
Who never lacked appreciation for the earth’s beauty or failed to express it;
Who looked for the best in others and gave the best he (she) had.
