THE TWO WORDS | AdventAI

Pacific Press Publishing Company · Oakland, California · Aug 28, 1898

FromSigns of the Times, Vol. 19, No. 42.

THE TWO WORDS.

One day a harsh word, rashly said, Upon an evil journey sped, And like a sharp and cruel dart It pierced a fond and loving heart; It turned a friend into a foe, And everywhere brought pain and woe.

A kind word followed it one day, Flew swiftly on its blessed way; It healed the wound, it soothed the pain, And friends of old were friends again; It made the hate and anger cease, And everywhere brought joy and peace.

But yet the harsh word left a trace The kind word could not quite efface; And, though the heart its love regained, It bore a scar that long remained; Friends could forgive, but not forget, Or lose the sense of keen regret.

Oh! if we would but learn to know How swift and sure one word can go, How would we weigh with utmost care Each thought before it sought the air, And only speak the words that move Like white-winged messengers of love! —Sel.