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Something Sweet To Remember
A poem by Strickland Gillilan that reminds us how happy memories can bring comfort and encouragement when life does not go as planned.
We all have times when things do not turn out the way we hoped. Dreams may go unfulfilled, plans may change, and disappointments can leave us feeling discouraged. But even during difficult times, we have memories of happier days that can remind us of the good things life has given us.
In Something Sweet To Remember, Strickland Gillilan encourages us to remember the moments of joy, love, and success we have experienced. We cannot always change what is happening today, but we can choose what we focus our thoughts on.
If you enjoy poetry that offers encouragement and lessons for everyday living, explore our collection of Famous Poems for more inspiring verses.
Updated October 10, 2026, by Catherine Pulsifer.
Something Sweet To Remember
Poet: Strickland Gillilan
No matter if things of the present are less than we wish them to be;
No matter if joys we'd expected pass by on the other side;
No matter if hope's finest fruitage still clings to the wishing tree,
No matter if some of our dreamings have lingered awhile and died.
Even lacking these satisfactions, life is far from a pleasureless thing
If we've something that's sweet to remember, we can bravely and blithesomely sing.
There was once howe'er joyless your present when you thrilled with the love of life;
You have lived through some perfect moments when your darlingest wish was fulfilled;
There have been little seasons of triumph, when your banner rode over the strife,
When, just as if Fate were your servant, things came as you'd stubbornly willed.
So now, though your colors be trailing, though some other's joy-flag is afling,
If you've something that's sweet to remember, you may live in that mem'ry, and sing!
Key Reflections In This Poem
- Happy Memories Can Bring Comfort
When life becomes difficult, remembering happier times can lift our spirits. Those memories remind us that our lives have been filled with moments worth appreciating.
- Life Does Not Always Go As Planned
We all experience disappointments and dreams that do not come true. Rather than allowing those experiences to take away our joy, we can remember the good things we have known.
- Be Thankful for Past Blessings
The love, laughter, and successes we have experienced are gifts worth remembering. Being thankful for those moments can help us maintain a positive attitude today.
- Choose Where You Focus Your Thoughts
We may not be able to control everything that happens in life, but we can choose what we dwell on. Remembering something good can help us face a difficult day with renewed encouragement.
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Conclusion
Strickland Gillilan's poem, Something Sweet To Remember, reminds us that life will not always be exactly as we hoped. There will be disappointments, missed opportunities, and days when we wish things were different. But those difficult moments do not erase the happiness we have experienced.
We all have memories that can bring a smile to our faces. Perhaps it is time spent with someone we love, a goal we accomplished, or a simple moment that brought us joy. When life feels discouraging, remember those blessings and be thankful for them. Sometimes a happy memory is just what we need to help us face today with a more positive attitude.
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