Prayer

Who pant and struggle to be free,

Who strive for others’ liberty,

Who, failing, still work patiently,

    They truly pray.

 

Who, loving all, dare none despise,

But with the worst can sympathise,

Who for a truth a martyr die,

    They truly pray.

 

Who, when a truth to them is known,

Embrace it through smile or frown,

Who dare to hold it though alone,

    They truly pray.

 

In musing, strength must come to dare,

Petitions are but empty air,

Brave action is the only prayer,

    Thus learn to pray.

                                     Annie Besant