Be Strong! We are not here to play, to dream, to drift;

We have hard work to do, and loads to lift;

Shun not the struggle…face it; ’tis God’s gift.

 

Be Strong! Say not, “the days are evil – who’s to blame?”

And fold the hands and acquiesce – oh shame!

Stand up, speak out, and bravely, in God’s name.

 

Be Strong! It matters not how deep intrenched the wrong,

How hard the battle goes, the day how long;

Faint not – fight on! Tomorrow comes the song!

– Dr. Maltbie D. Babcock, Pastor of Brick Presbyterian Church, New York, New York (1858 – 1901)