Crosses and Troubles

Crosses and troubles a-many have proved me.

One or two women (God bless them!) have loved me.

I have worked and dreamed, and I’ve talked of will,

Of art and drink I have had my fill.

I’ve comforted here and I’ve succoured there.

I’ve faced my foes, and I’ve backed my friends.

I’ve blundered, and sometimes made amends.

I have prayed for light, and I’ve known despair.

Now I look before, as I look behind,

Come storm, come shine, whatever befall,

With a grateful heart and a constant mind,

For the end, I know, is the best of all.

-       William Ernest Henley[1]

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[1] See footnote 1 in "Invictus" posting for a biographical sketch of William Ernest Henley.