Do Not Lose Your Pep

Some days test our patience and our courage. This poem is a steady reminder that setbacks do not get the final word. David V. Bush points us back to persistence, hope, and the choice to keep moving forward.

"When life pushes hard, hold on to your determination, because your best days can still be ahead."

Updated February 12, 2026, by Catherine Pulsifer.

What makes this poem encouraging is how practical it feels. It speaks to loss, disappointment, and fear, but it does not stay there. It reminds us that storms pass, new friends can come, and fresh opportunities can appear when we keep trying. Pep is not just excitement, it is steady heart, and the decision to not give up.

The Poem - Do Not Lose Your Pep

by David V. Bush

If you've been flayed by Failure's lash,
Do not lose your pep!
If you have lost your friends and cash,
Do not lose your pep!
The lash in time will ravel out;
You'll gain more friends who will not doubt;
With new-earned wealth your cares you'll flout-
Do not lose your pep!

If blasting winds have blown your way.
Do not lose your pep!
No wind or storm can last for aye.
Do not lose your pep!
If frowning fortune threatens you
And wicked lightning streaks the blue,
Stand firm and fast; for peace ne'er sue —
Do not lose your pep!

If Fate assails you ill by ill,
Do not lose your pep!
If evil strikes with claws to kill,
Do not lose your pep!
Though grave and grievous be your plight;
Though not a star shine forth at night;
That is no time to quit the fight —
Do not lose your pep!

If all your plans have come to naught,
Do not lose your pep!
'Tis much to say you bravely fought;
Do not lose your pep!
If your bright star is on the wane,
Cease not your task — plunge in again!
Vict'ry will come through grief and pain -
Do not lose your pep!

Key Messages in this poem:

As you reflect on these verses, a few simple reminders stand out, offering encouragement for anyone facing a difficult moment.

Hard moments do not last forever.
The poem reminds us that trouble has a season, and with time, the pressure can ease.
Keep standing firm when fear shows up.
Even when you feel shaken, you can choose courage and keep your footing one step at a time.
Try again when plans fall apart.
A setback is not a finish line. The poem encourages us to start again, because progress often comes after persistence.
Small steps still count.
Even when progress feels slow, each steady effort moves you forward. Consistency builds strength over time.

Popular Pages

These popular pages share encouraging poems and messages that echo the same theme of perseverance, hope, and staying strong through life’s challenges.

If you need a strong reminder to stay the course, read Don't You Quit.

For another well loved encouragement poem, visit Don't Quit Poem.

When you want uplifting words for any day, explore Positive Messages.

If you are pushing through a tough season, you may relate to Keep A Going Poem.

For short reminders that help you stay encouraged, see Keep Your Head Up Quotes.

For more uplifting verses that speak to everyday struggles, browse Inspirational Poems.

Conclusion

Do Not Lose Your Pep is a reminder that you do not have to feel fearless to keep going. You simply have to refuse to quit. When failure stings, when plans change, or when worry feels loud, this poem encourages you to hold on to hope and take the next step. Determination grows each time you choose to continue.

More David V. Bush Poems to Inspire

"Do what you can today, keep your enthusiasm strong, and trust that persistence can lead you to better days."