Tell me not, disabled brethren,
"My Life is but second rate!"
Of that myth I'm a veteran,
Who would want that as a fate?
Life is real! Life is earnest!
Our example is a source of envy
People see a life tarnished
They do not see a life of plenty
True enjoyment, and not sorrow,
Is our destined end or way;
Persevere, that each to-morrow
Finds us farther than to-day.
In the world's broad field of battle,
In the mission of a Life,
Be not like dumb, driven cattle!
Be a hero in the strife!
Lives of great men all remind us
We can make our lives like Gerry's,
And, departing, leave behind us
Discrimination's adversary.
We can say this without rancor
Gerry's wheelchair is a sail
Not a burden, not an anchor
Just a part of Gerry's tale
Let us, then, be up and doing,
With a heart for any fate;
Still achieving, still pursuing
Intolerant of any wait.
HWL & WCR
