Poems by Louisa May Alcott

My Kingdom

A little kingdom I possess 

where thoughts and feelings dwell, 

And very hard I find the task 

of governing it well; 

For passion tempts and troubles me, 

A wayward will misleads, 

And selfishness its shadow casts 

On all my words and deeds. 

How can I learn to rule myself, 

to be the child I should, 

Honest and brave, nor ever tire 

Of trying to be good? 

How can I keep a sunny soul 

To shine along life's way? 

How can I tune my little heart 

To sweetly sing all day? 

Dear Father, help me with the love 

that casteth out my fear; 

Teach me to lean on thee, and feel 

That thou art very near, 

That no temptation is unseen 

No childish grief too small, 

Since thou, with patience infinite, 

Doth soothe and comfort all. 

I do not ask for any crown 

But that which all may win 

Nor seek to conquer any world 

Except the one within. 

Be thou my guide until I find, 

Led by a tender hand, 

Thy happy kingdom in myself 

And dare to take command. 

Louisa May Alcott

He That Is Down Need Fear No Fall

He that is down need fear no fall,

He that is low no pride.

He that is humble ever shall

Have God to be his guide.

I am content with what I have,

Little be it, or much.

And, Lord! Contentment still I crave,

Because Thou savest such.

Fulness to them a burden is,

That go on pilgrimage.

Here little, and hereafter bliss,

Is best from age to age! 

Louisa May Alcott