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Never Say Fail
This poem encourages us to never say fail, even when the path feels difficult. Daniel Colesworthy reminds us that our attitude toward failure often shapes the outcome. When we choose perseverance over discouragement, we give ourselves the chance to grow, learn, and move forward.
Never underestimate the role your attitude plays in perseverance and passion. Many times, failure comes not from inability, but from giving up too soon. Growth often requires effort, patience, and the willingness to keep trying when things are not easy.
As Colesworthy reminds us, in both storm and sunshine, steady effort and determination help us move onward and conquer without giving in to defeat.
The poet makes it clear that progress does not happen only when life feels calm and easy. True perseverance is revealed during seasons of challenge, when obstacles appear and the road feels uncertain. It is during these moments that continuing forward matters most.
Let this well known poem encourage you to keep your thoughts focused, your actions steady, and your heart moving forward with purpose.
Updated September 12, 2026, by Catherine Pulsifer.
Never Say Fail
Poet: Daniel C. Colesworthy
Keep pushing - 'tis wiser
Than sitting aside,
And dreaming and sighing,
And waiting the tide:
In Life's earnest battle,
They only prevail
Who daily march onward,
And never say fail.
With an eye ever open,
And a tongue that's not dumb,
And a heart that will never
To sorrow succumb,
You'll battle and conquer,
Though thousands assail:
How strong and how mighty,
Who never say fail!
The spirits of angels
Are active, I know,
As higher and higher
In glory they go:
Methinks on bright pinions
From heaven they sail,
To cheer and encourage
Who never say fail.
Ahead then keep pushing,
And elbow your way,
Unheeding the envious,
And mockers that bray:
All obstacles vanish,
All enemies quail,
In the might of their wisdom
Who never say fail.
In life's rosy morning,
In manhood's firm pride,
Let this be the motto
Your footsteps to guide:
In storm and in sunshine,
Whatever assail,
You'll onward and conquer,
And never say fail.
Key Reflections In This Poem
-
Keep Moving Forward
Progress comes when we continue moving forward, even when the way is difficult. Colesworthy reminds us that perseverance often makes the difference between giving up and reaching our goal.
-
Do Not Let Setbacks Define You
Difficulties may slow us down, but they do not have to determine where we end up. Each challenge gives us another opportunity to learn, grow, and try again.
-
Let Determination Guide You
Our attitude can influence how we respond when obstacles appear. A determined heart looks beyond the difficulty and searches for a way to continue.
-
Persevere Through Every Season
Life brings both storm and sunshine, and we will experience times of struggle as well as joy. Through every season, the message of the poem is simple: keep going and never say fail.
Popular Pages
If this poem encouraged you, these popular pages share more on pushing through hard moments, learning from failure, and keeping a steady attitude when life feels heavy.
If you want quick words that lift your thoughts, read these Failure Quotes and keep moving forward.
Sometimes one short motto can guide your day, so take a look at these Life Mottos for simple reminders to live with purpose.
When you need that extra push to not give up, these Keep Going Poems offer steady encouragement.
If you want another classic message about not giving in, visit the Don't Quit Poem and let it renew your determination.
Your mindset shapes your steps, so these Attitude Quotes can help you focus on what is helpful and true.
If you enjoy discovering more writers like Colesworthy, browse these Famous Poets and find more poems worth sharing.
Conclusion
Never Say Fail reminds us that progress is often a choice we make again and again. We may face storms, delays, and voices that try to pull us back, but the poem keeps pointing us forward. When we keep pushing, keep learning, and keep trusting that effort matters, we grow stronger than we were yesterday. Let this poem be a reminder to take one more step, say one more prayer, try one more time, and keep your heart set on what is good.
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