What does the poet mean when he says, "Boost, and the world boosts with you"? Is Bush speaking of positive influences or is he talking about getting someone else to give you a boost so that you are able to finish whatever you start or to help you when you are under great burden? Well, the answer is quite simply that this poem reflects what is under your control, what you are able to do if you are willing. It is also clear the poem is not calling us to be a moaner but to be a doer.
"A cheerful spirit lifts more than burdens; it lifts people, purpose, and possibilities."
Updated February 13, 2026, by Catherine Pulsifer.
Every person's life from the wealthiest to the poorest has issues and difficulties to confront. But, here is the proper way to view what befalls all of us, and that is complaining about a problem or issue or circumstance without a solution is the same as whining. In other words, if you remain stuck in the problem, you will never be able to see a way out. This solution-oriented attitude is applicable to any situation that may arise in your life. It applies to home and family, work and co-workers, organizations big and small, and all businesses. The sad truth is that this solution outlook is not normative behavior. It is unfortunate that most people can only see a problem. One may also argue that this type of attitude also encompasses worry. That is to say, that worry never solves a problem.
The conclusion and message to consider through the words of David Bush are these: be a self-booster; be an encourager to those around you and life will take on a much better perspective. This is a great poem by David V. Bush to remind us all to encourage or boost ourselves and others. Your attitude towards how you look at things - either a booster or a complainer - will determine your success!
Boost, and the world boosts with you;
Knock, and you knock alone;
If you're out to win through thick and thin
You must have the booster's tone!
Kick, and your toes will suffer;
Boost, and you'll put it through;
For the throng can't halt while you find fault,
But will pay you for what you do!
Boost, and the world respects you;
Knock, and it turns its face;
You must help, not balk; for the railer's talk
Keeps him back in the busy race.
Knock, and the doors are bolted;
Boost, and they open wide;
There is little use for sour abuse.
And they're looking for smiles inside!
Lift, and the load is easy;
Lean, and it seems too great;
You should throw your force in the proper course
If you want it to move the weight!
Boost, and the Fates will help you;
Knock, and the ill winds fret;
You can't keep afloat if you rock the boat,
Or speed if your brake is set!
Boost, and your spirit's happy;
Knock, and your fate's unkind;
You can reap no boon when you're out of tune,
For the crowd never stops to mind!
Boost, and the world is with you;
Knock, and you pine alone;
So blithely stand for your task and land.
And the world will become your own!
This poem reminds us that our attitude matters. When we choose to boost instead of knock, we change not only how others see us, but how we see life itself. A positive spirit opens doors that negativity keeps shut.
Encouragement is never wasted. When you lift someone else, you lift yourself as well. A booster creates momentum, and that momentum spreads to family, work, and every area of life.
The poet makes it clear that fault finding and complaining keep us stuck. Focusing on solutions, rather than problems, moves us forward and gives us strength to carry the load.
Words can build or tear down. Choosing to speak with hope, kindness, and belief in others creates respect and trust. The world responds differently to those who bring light instead of criticism.
You cannot control everything around you, but you can control your response. Being a booster is a daily decision. When you choose it, your spirit grows stronger and your path becomes clearer.
If you enjoyed the uplifting message of this poem, these popular pages offer even more encouragement and inspiration to brighten your day.
The message of “Be A Booster” is simple yet powerful. Your attitude shapes your experience. When you choose to lift instead of criticize, to encourage instead of complain, you create a better path for yourself and others. The world responds to those who bring energy, effort, and hope. Be the one who boosts. It will make a difference in more ways than you can imagine.
More David V. Bush Poems to Inspire
"Encourage someone today, and you may never fully know the strength you helped awaken within them."