violet.

the violet

down in a green and shady bed,

a modest violet grew;

its stalk was bent, it hung its head

as if to hide from view.

and yet it was a lovely flower,

its colour bright and fair;

it might have graced a rosy bower,

instead of hiding there.

yet thus it was content to bloom,

in modest tints arrayed;

and there diffused a sweet perfume,

within the silent shade.

then let me to the valley go

this pretty flower to see;

that I may also learn to grow

in sweet humility.

by jane taylor