We are quick to notice obstacles, grudges, affronts. Are we equally quick to recognize the kindly influences that speed us on our way? The truth is we are each of us a debtor to life, and as honest men we should do all we can to discharge the obligation.

"Life," you say, "'s an old curmudgeon; yes, a thing whose heart is
flint;
When I ask a friendly greeting, all I get's an angry glint.
Let me do it every good turn that I can—my very best,
Still it strikes me, trips, maligns me, and denies my least request.

"So," you say, "my patience ended, I will give it tit for tat."
What a bunch of animosities is covered by your hat!
All the roses life can offer bloom and beckon to your soul,
But you close your eyes to roses and in thorns lie down and roll.

Life does nothing for you, sonny? What a notion you have! Say,
Make a little inventory of its gifts to you to-day.
You've a house or room to sleep in—did you build it with your hand?
If you did, who made the hammer and who cleared for you the land?

And electric lights—you use them; did you also put them there?
Beefsteak, coal, your mail, shoes, street cars—do they come like
rain from air?
Or do countless men, far-scattered, toil that you may have more
ease?—
Stokers, hodmen, farmers, plumbers, Yankees, dagoes, Japanese?

"Oh, that's general," you tell me. You have private blessings too.
Why, your mother in your childhood slaved and wrought and lived for you.
Helpful hands were all around you—hopes, fond wishes in the past;
Even now each day from somewhere friendly looks are on you cast.

Though you've been both crossed and harried, you've not struggled
on alone;
Through the discords of endeavor comes to you an answering tone.
Life has done you many favors. Will you give it tit for tat?
Since you've looked so much at this side, won't you have a look
at that?

Don't help only those who've helped you, count the rest as strangers,
foes;
How long now would you have lasted had all done as you propose?
Many and many a benefactor you did not nor can repay—
There's your mother. Pass the kindness on to others—that's the way.

Life it is that's given freely. Unto life make due return.
Whether folks are undeserving, neither seek nor wish to learn.
Hit your dernedest for your teammates every time you come to bat,
And the world will be more happy that you give it tit for tat.

St. Clair Adams.