Our Dear Ones

How tender we are of our dear ones, we never can smile at their
pain;
We never can laugh when they sorrow, we never can love them in
vain.
How careful we are of our dear ones, what sympathy wakes at a
glance;
What happiness waits on their presence to ev'ry new blessing
enhance.

How patient we are with our dear ones, though hearts may with
anguish be wrung;
We ever are one with their sadness, no matter how timid or young.
How gentle we are with our dear ones when swiftly the tide rushes
by;
How ready to share in each trouble, how ready to echo each sigh.

How loving we are with our dear ones, ambitious to lighten the
cross;
More anxious to carry the burden, the greater the pain and the
loss.
How pleasant we are with our dear ones, how gladly with them we
rejoice;
How eager to follow their footsteps, from duty, and pleasure, and
choice.