Don't be Unkind to the Old Folk

Don't be Unkind to the Old Folk

by Josephine Pollard

Don't be unkind to the old folk, Give them your tenderest care, Let them in all your enjoyments Feel that they have a warm share; Give them a place at the fireside, Comfort them all that you can, Now they are lonely and feeble, Now they are nearing life's span.

Think of the trials and sorrows They have been called to endure; Think of life's beauty and brightness To them growing dim and obscure; Think of the sad disappointments, The losses and crosses they’ve known, And don’t be unkind to the old folk, Nor leave them neglected, alone.

Blest is the home where the old folk And young folk together are found, Mingling their tears and their laughter, Both with true happiness crowned; Age from its garner house giving Treasures of wisdom and truth, Into its bosom receiving Joy, and renewal of youth.

Tenderly watch o’er the old folk, Kindly their sorrows assuage, Youth should be ever the solace And the strong staff of old age. With all their whims and their fancies, Patiently bear and forbear; Don’t be unkind to the old folk, Give them your tenderest care. - - - o - - -

Source: WT 30/5/1885