Benjamin Cutler Clark

1825-1875 / the United States

The Crisis

When a crisis heaves in view,
Manfully meet it;
Do not shrink or be dismay'd,
Cheerfully greet it.

All dangers mostly end by
Strong opposition;
Then take a noble stand, and
A firm position.

Like trees whose roots are deep, and
Whose branches flowing,
Firmly resist the shock, while
The storm is blowing.

Then be not recreant, and
Do not disemble,
And when the crisis comes, like
A coward tremble.

Clouds that are threatening, and
Fill us with sorrow,
Oft bring a blessing on with
The early morrow.

Then manfully resist, with
A firm reliance;
Trusting to Providence, meet
It with defiance.
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