The treasure box holds all manner of scraps of paper on which is printed or scribbled bits of wisdom that I have saved through the years– quotes, poems, prayers that have inspired me.

I have not cared that the grandchildren liked to dump it out and play with the paper or toss them all around like confetti, as little babes will. Although I decided to put it out of reach after finding tiny granddaughter, whose parent had decided to potty train, sitting smack in a puddle of her own making, with the box and papers scattered around her. Thankfully none of the dearest scraps of wisdom were soaked, although, yes, I did keep a few and let them dry out. I figure in years to come I can look at the stained paper and remember: “Oh, yes, that’s where dear Precious Grace peed on them. Isn’t that sweet?”

Among my scraps of wisdom is this poem that I copied many years ago from Our Kate, a memoir by novelist Catherine Cookson. I have noted that she credited the source as The Happy Mag, 1929–

I will succeed, I simply cannot fail

The only obstacle is doubt.

There’s not a hill I cannot scale

Once fear is put to rout.

Don’t think defeat,

Don’t talk defeat.

The word will rob you of your strength.

I will succeed, this phrase repeat

Throughout the journey’s length.

 

The moment that I can’t is said,

You slam a door right in your face.

Why not exclaim I will instead,

Half won is then the race.

You close the door to your success

By entertaining one small fear.

Think happiness, talk happiness,

Watch joy then coming near.

 

Blessings,
CurtissAnn