Can't by Edgar A. Guest Can't is the worst word that's written or spoken; Doing more harm than slander or lies; On it a strong spirit is broken, And with it many a good purpose dies. It springs from the lips of the thoughtless each morning And robs us of courage we need through the day; It rings in our ears like a timely sent warning, And laughs when we faulter and fall by the way. Can't is the father of feeble endeavor The parent of terror and half-hearted words, It weakens the efforts of artisans clever And makes of the toiler an indolent shirk; It poisons the soul of the man with vision. It stifles in infancy many a plan. It greets honest toiling with open derision, And mocks at the hopes and dreams of a man. Can't is a word none should speak without blushing. To utter it should be a symbol of shame. Ambition and courage it daily is crushing. It blights a man's purpose and shortens his aim. Hate it with hatred that's deep and undying, For once it is welcomed 'twil break any man. Whatever the goal you are seeking, Keep trying and answer this demon by saying "I can." ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- SPIRIT Mailing List for LDS-oriented spiritual thoughts, items and stories For assistance, contact [email protected] http://seminary.org/spirit/