INFLUENCE by Paul Clayton

Pacific Press Publishing Company · Oakland, California · Mar 20, 1893

FromSigns of the Times, Vol. 19, No. 20.

INFLUENCE.

By Paul Clayton

I DROPPED a pebble in the stream: It sunk forever from my sight; A moment in the sun's warm beam A diamond sparkled pure and bright, Reflecting far its radiant light. A circle small, indeed, at first, Widened e'en midst the tempest's roar, Until at last it faintly burst And vanished on the further shore.

A frown, a scowl, an angry glance, A hasty or unguarded word, A formal bow, a look askance— These, quicker than a swift-winged bird, Pierce to the heart like two-edged sword; Spreading a baleful influence wide, They cast a mirksome shade and gloom Across life's rough and troubled tide, And reach unto the silent tomb.

A word, a look of sympathy, A penny generously bestowed, A simple act of courtesy, A kindly influence shed abroad And from the soul lift many a load. These angel deeds, grand and sublime, Like ripples on the restless sea, Sweep o'er the fretful stream of time And reach into eternity. —Paul Clayton.