Is It Worth While?

IS IT WORTH WHILE? Is it worth while to listen To ought that the world may say? Is it worth while to heed the praise, Or blame—of life's short day? Let men slander as they will, And whisper falsest words of ill — Don't mind—but keep thy spirit still, Noble, pure and true. For in this mortal life of ours, We form the life that is to be — Our habits form our characters — And character our destiny. It matters not what men may say — Of no avail is slandering spite; For nought can harm the steadfast soul That trusts in God and does the right. « —Reginal B. Span, in Intelligence.