Work And Joy

Portrait of Robert William Service
Robert William Service 1874–1958

Each day I live I thank the Lord I do the work I love; And in it find a rich reward, All price and praise above. For few may do the work they love, The fond unique employ, That fits them as a hand a glove, And gives them joy.

Oh gentlefolk, do you and you Who toil for daily hire, Consider that the job you do Is to your heart's desire? Aye, though you are to it resigned, And will no duty shirk, Oh do you in your private mind Adore your work?

Twice happy man whose job is joy, Whose hand and heart combine, In brave and excellent employ As radiantly as mine! But oh the weary, dreary day, The wear and tear and irk Of countless souls who cannot say: 'I love my work.'

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