Our Graduates

(Dedicated to Ruby and Mary Sutton
by their mother).

As our children leave the school
room,
And we know their feet must roam,
Distant paths of life receive them
Far from friends and far from
home.
And we think at twilight's gloaming
Will their life's work be complete?
Will they do their duty ever,
Will they every trial meet
With a hand and heart unflinching
And in all things stand the test.
And in times when trials meet them
Will they strive to do their best?
We, who try to guard them ever,
May not speak a word of cheer,
May not speak a word of comfort
When temptation lingers near.
So when bitter storms assail them
May a rifted cloud appear.
May it cheer their hearts and quickly,
Drive away all doubt and fear.
We would not just give them pleasure
For it is our Father's will,
Cloudy days must come. It ever
Makes the sunshine brighter still.
Some to battle fields are going
Others various things may do.
Labor waits for all that's ready
To be loyal, brave and true.
Then on battle fields, or sowing
Fields of grain! whate'er thy lot,
Go thou forth to duty knowing
Not a hero is forgot.
For in life's book written yonder,
Little kindly deeds they say
Though but small if you are faithful,
Open wide the gates of Day.

^__Nettie Squire Sutton.

A Book of Poems
Nettie Squire Sutton
(Minneapolis, KS: Messenger Press. n.d.)
Page 55