Surely in the brow’s sweat we seek the good,

a jewel desired but in harm’s setting placed.

Gained at a risk, our lives on danger based,

Hurt and help are in the single circumstance

and evil taints the hope, the goal contaminates.

So Providence submits to bitter fate -

the cross; its partner in redemption’s dance.

Good comes by increments; so slow its speed!

Humanity rebuffs the pure, God’s Self!

Gives up! The good is placed back on the shelf

Two steps ahead, two back, progress indeed !

Try again! Smudge the tiny ash of grace;

God helps you make the world a better place!