42 Poems About Life

A collection of uplifting poems offering wisdom, inspiration, and reflection on life.

Short Poems & Quotes    |     Poems About Life

By Catherine Pulsifer, updated October 22, 2024


Life is a journey shaped by the choices we make, the love we give, and the courage we find in every challenge

A collection of inspiring short poems about life that we feel are the best to inspire and encourage you. Living your life to the fullest is what we should all strive to do. Many times as we journeyed through life, we reflected on the short verses in these poems. Life has its good times and bad, but how we react to those times will reflect our success and happiness in life.

Let the words of these Poets give you words for reflection. Encouraging poems and verses to uplift and motivate you in dealing with many different aspects of life. Reading poems can change your perspective and help you see circumstances in a different light. While many of the poems are short you will find inspirational words that are full of wisdom.

Table of Contents





    Life's Journey

    These poems explore the ups and downs, joys and trials that make life an unforgettable journey.


  1. Life
    Poet: Bernhart Paul Holst

    My life is a beautiful song,
    The days pass swiftly away,
    The years speed so quickly along —
    It seems like the dream of a day.

    My youth was a charming delight,
    A springtime of which poets sin;
    It dawned on me, happy and bright,
    But flew like a bird on the wing.

    The years of maturity came.
    Fraught with the chances of life;
    The labors that were not in vain
    Gave stimuli, fruitful and rife.

    As student, as teacher, as man.
    The seasons so quickly have flown;
    The cycles of time swiftly ran
    And taken dear friends I have known.

    And soon will I turn to the west,
    West, where the sun sinks from view.
    To welcome the long, peaceful rest,
    After bidding all earth-friends adieu.

    My life is a beautiful song,
    The days pass swiftly away,
    The years speed so quickly along —
    It seems like the dream of a day.



  2. The Years Go By
    Poet: Catherine Pulsifer, © 2020


    When we were young aging seemed like fun
    We couldn't wait until the age was done
    We then hit our teens and with life came
    Some responsibility but still lots of games.
    And so the twenty's were realized
    And we found we had to get organized.

    And before you knew it we hit the big three o!
    A party was had, the energy was glad, oh, what a show
    Before you knew it they were saying over the hill
     You hit the age of forty and had responsibility for all the bills
    Fifty crept up ever so slow
    But you wonder where did the years go?

    With 60 approaching you look back and see
    How fast the years went by, oh, you need more coffee
    70 flys by in a blink of an eye
    You just grin and kiss the years goodbye.
    Then 80 arrives with a blast
    With family around you wondering how long you will last.

    While the words may seem funny,
    Aging can truly be sunny
    Live your life and
    Let aging have its way
    Enjoy your life and keep smilin'
    The years will pass by that is for certain!



  3. Life Is For Livin
    Poet: Catherine Pulsifer, © 2020


    Life is meant to be lived each day
    Do our best in every way
    Set our goals and work towards
    The achievement and its rewards.

    We must always appreciate
    And take the time to initiate
    Relationships that are key to life
    To help us through daily strife.

    No sense worrying about what tomorrow holds
    Live today and see it unfold
    Be thankful for what we've been given
    Each day is a time for truly livin'!



  4. Waiting For Life
    Poet: Julie Hebert, ©2011


    Life as a child went too slow.
    But now that I'm older,
    I'm somewhat unsure,
    Of why growing up quick was needed so.

    Even grown, I still am prone,
    To wondering when my real like will begin.....
    Read more at Waiting For Life To Begin



  5. Life Is An Adventure
    Poet: Catherine Pulsifer


    Life is an adventure, a journey to embrace,
    Filled with unknowns, yet wrapped in grace.
    Each step we take holds promise and delight,
    A treasure trove of moments, shining bright.

    Embrace the twists and turns that come our way,
    For each new dawn brings hope and a brighter day.
    So let's greet life with open arms, as we set out to explore,
    For in this grand adventure, there's always so much more.



  6. Life is an adventure, a journey to embrace


  7.  A Balance In Life?
    Poet: Catherine Pulsifer, © 2019


    How do you get a balance in life?
    Our time can sometimes create such strife
    How much of your time is focused on
    Getting to the top and being number one.

    There is more to life than just making money
    Look at relationships and spending time with your buddy
    At the end of the day, you will see that these things
    Relationships are key and happiness they bring.

    And if only you seek to have fun and play
    You will not find happiness each day
    As time goes on with no goals in mind
    Life has a tendency to leave you behind.

    The time we spend can have so many demands
    Balance seems hard to learn and understand
    But remember, you have control of it
    You decide what you'll permit.

    So what does a balance in life mean to you?
    Do you consider it in all you do
    Take the time to work hard but, also relax
    Don't get worn down and overtaxed.

    Moderation in life is the key
    Balance can result in feelings of happy.
    So whatever you do may you find
    Work hard but allow time to unwind.



  8. Life's Voyages
    Poet: Lillian E. Curtis


    Then the varied seasons come and go,
    There's summer's sun and winter's snow;
    To some they bring akin to unbroken joy.
    To others, misfortunes that hope destroy;
    Some seem rushing headlong thro' the world.
    Grasping whate'er in their reach is hurl'd;
    Some, striving with neighbors to vie;
    And that's the way the years go by.
    Some are flitting blithely to and fro.
    Culling all the best as they go;
    Here the marriage bells are ringing. . . .
    Read more at Journey Of Life



  9. But you are the only person alive who has sole custody of your life. Your particular life. Your entire life.  Not just your life at a desk, or your life on the bus, or in the car, or at the computer.  Not just the life of your mind, but the life of your heart.  Not just your bank account, but your soul. Anna Quindlen, A Short Guide to a Happy Life
    Life Choices Poems



  10. It's Life
    Poet: Edgar A. Guest


    If your plans go wrong, as they sometimes will,
    And the hours seem long as you climb the hill;
    Remember, my friend, 'tis a part you play.
    You'll find in the end a brighter day.
    It's life.

    If a heart grows cold that warmed to you.
    And a friend you hold to be staunch and true
    Has faithless turned, take heart, my friend,
    'Tis a lesson learned. With a bitter end.
    It's life.

    You may win great fame and wealth today;
    Or taste of shame and deep dismay.
    You may lose or gain, may rise or fall,
    Both joy and pain must come to all.
    It's life.

    For every smile there is a tear;
    For every mile both hope and fear;
    When some are gay some must be sad;
    Along our way are good and bad.
    It's life.

    Whatever may be your share of woe,
    Next day may see you come to know
    A joyful heart and perfect rest;
    So play your part and do your best.
    It's life.


  11. Related:

    Life Journey Poems

    Life Is Too Short Poems

    Living Life Poem

    Enjoy Life Poems

    Wonderful Things Poems


    Back to Table of Contents


    Purpose and Meaning

    Poems that reflect on finding meaning and understanding the deeper purpose behind life’s experiences.


  12.  The Meaning of Life
    Poet: Catherine Pulsifer, © 2020


    Have you given thought to the meaning of life
    Or do you go day to day with the strife
    Do you ever step back and reflect
    On the meaning of life and every aspect.

    What is your purpose in life to be
    These are questions you must ask and see
    Questions to reflect on and consider
    Are you happy or are you bitter.

    Is there more to life than you realize
    Do you help others and recognize
    That life is not just about you
    We are all in it together that is so true.

    The years go by in a blink of an eye
    What will people say about you when you die?
    Will they remember how hard you worked
    Or will they remember you as a jerk.

    The meaning of life is to me
    Sharing and kindness to be
    A loving person who helps others
    One who realizes that we are all brothers.



  13. The meaning of life is to me Sharing and kindness


  14. Live For Something
    Poet: Unknown


    Live for something, be not idle,
    Look about thee for employ,
    Sit not down to useless dreaming,--
    Labor is the sweetest joy.
    Folded hands are ever weary,
    Selfish hearts are never gay,
    Life for thee hath many duties,--
    Active be, then, whilst thou may.

    Scatter blessings in thy pathway!
    Gentle words and cheering smiles
    Better are than gold and silver,
    With their grief-dispelling wiles.
    As the pleasant sunshine falleth
    Ever on the grateful earth,
    So let sympathy and kindness
    Gladden well the darkened hearth.

    Hearts there are oppressed and weary,--
    Drop the tear of sympathy;
    Whisper words of hope and comfort;
    Give, and thy reward shall be
    Joy unto thy soul returning,
    From this perfect fountain-head;
    Freely, as thou freely givest,
    Shall the grateful light be shed.



  15. What Are
    Poet: Catherine Pulsifer, © 2020

    What are the things you are thankful for?
    Do you focus on whether you're rich or poor;
    Or are you content or looking for more;
    Do you focus on material things;
    Do you think happiness they will bring;
    Do you focus on making more money;
    Does money bring you more of life's honey.

    What are the things you are thankful for?
    Is it "when this happens" tomorrow will be -
    I will be happier just wait and see.
    Do you miss the sunset and sunrise or do you see
    That time passed by because you are too busy.
    When family and friends call you on the phone
    You're too busy you say, with a groan.

    The things to be thankful for money can't buy
    Money and things just can't supply
    Be thankful for the simple things - just stop and see
    People who love you to every degree.
    The breathtaking sunset and the sunrise
    Can delight your eyes and give such a surprise.
    So take time and be thankful for the simple things
    Today they surround you and happiness they can bring.



  16. Motive In Life
    by Stephen F. Herben


    What is your motive in life?
    Every life finds its chief inspiration somewhere.
    Perhaps it is to succeed?
    But what do you mean by success?

    Is it to gather together dollar after dollar;
    To stand in a conspicuous place in the social circle;
    To achieve some great result in invention,
    In commercial life, in art, in letters, in politics, in the professions;
    To indulge in the pleasure of the world life;
    Or is it to so live, that by the unhindered utterance
    Of the highest instincts and impulses of the heart,
    You shall make some permanent contribution toward the uplifting of men?

    The interpretation of life depends altogether upon the motive that inspires it.



  17. Each of us is born with a unique potential that defines a destiny. We are given the chance to do what no one has ever done before and to leave our distinctive mark on the world before we die. Robert K. Cooper, The Other 90%
    Legacy Poems



  18. My Motto Is
    Poet: George Macdonald

    I am content. In trumpet tones
    My song let people know;
    And many a mighty man with thrones
    And scepter is nnot so.
    And if he is I joyful cry.
    Why, then he's just the same as I.

    My motto is — Content with this;
    Gold — place — I prize not such.
    That which I have my measure is:
    Wise men desire not much.
    Men wish and wish, and have their will.
    And wish again as hungry still. . . .
    Read more at Life Mottos



  19. The Best Life
    Poet: Adelbert P. Caldwell


    He lives the best who never doth complain,
    Whether the passing days be filled with sun or rain;
    Who sows his deeds of love, and, patient, lives,
    Expecting not again the thing he gives;
    Who buries deep the Past - its pain, its tears -
    And bravely meets his Now, untrammeled by fears;

    Who lets his life so shine, e'en in the night,
    That wanderers distressed may see the Light;
    Who patiently toils on, though feet be sore;
    Whose home stands by the road with open door;
    Who smiles though down he sits to feast or crust -
    His faith in man sincere; in God his trust.



  20. How To Live
    Poet: Horatius Bonar


    He liveth long who liveth well;
    All other life is short and vain:
    He liveth longest who can tell
    Of living most for heavenly gain.

    He liveth long who liveth well;
    All else is being flung away:
    He liveth longest who can tell
    Of true things truly done each day.

    Waste not thy being; back to Him
    Who freely gave it, freely give:
    Else is that being but a dream;
    'Tis but to be, and not to live.

    Be what thou seemest; live thy creed;
    Hold up to earth the torch divine;
    Be what thou prayest to be made;
    Let the great Master's steps be thine.

    Fill up each hour with what will last;
    Buy up the moments as they go:
    The life above, when this is past,
    Is the ripe fruit of life below.

    Sow truth, if thou the true wouldst reap;
    Who sows the false shall reap the vain;
    Erect and sound thy conscience keep;
    From hollow words and deeds refrain.

    Sow love, and taste its fruitage pure;
    Sow peace, and reap its harvests bright;
    Sow sunbeams on the rock and moor,
    And find a harvest-home of light.


  21. Related:

    Poems About Purpose

    Follow Your Own Path Poems

    Poems About The Good Life

    Life Is Good Poems

    What Life Means To Me Poem

    Poems About Joy


    Back to Table of Contents


    Challenges and Struggles

    Life is filled with obstacles, and these poems offer insight into overcoming the struggles we face.


  22. Struggles Come Your Way
    Poet: Catherine Pulsifer, © 2020


    Just because struggles come your way
    That doesn't mean it can ruin your day
    The good and the bad are a way of life
    Don't get down, move beyond the strife.

    We must live life, taking things in stride
    Helping each other, stopping any divide
    Life is better when we support and love
    And that is what's expected from above.

    You see we were given choices to make
    We are not robots, we are not fake
    So if you're faced with a trial or two
    Don't give up, let others help you through.



  23. So if you're faced with a trial or two Don't give up, let others help you through.


  24. Somehow Or Other
    Poet: Unknown


    Life is a burden to every one's shoulder
    None may escape from its troubles and care;
    Miss it in youth and 'twill come when we 're older,
    And fit us as close as the garments we wear.
    Sorrow comes into our home uninvited,
    Robbing our heart of its treasures of song;
    Lovers grow cold and our friendships are slighted,
    Yet somehow or other we worry along.

    Midst the sweet blossoms that smile on our faces
    Grow the rank weeds that would poison and blight;
    And e'en in the midst of earth's beautiful places
    There's always a something that isn't just right.
    Yet oft from the rock we may pick a gay flower,
    And drink from a spring in a desolate waste;
    They come to the heart as a heavenly dower,
    And nought is so sweet to the eye or the taste.

    Every-day toil is an every-day blessing,
    Though poverty's cottage and crust we may share;
    Weak is the back on which burdens are pressing,
    But stout is the heart which is strengthened by prayer.
    Somehow or other the pathway grows brighter
    Just when we mourned there was none to befriend;
    Hope in the heart makes the burden seem lighter,
    And somehow or other we get to the end.



  25. A Balanced Life
    Poet: Julie Hebert


    Every life needs some balance,
    As there are always ups and downs.
    Remember what they always say,
    What goes up, must come down.

    But if you live with that in mind,
    And balance is the key.
    You will find that doors unlock,
    A little more easily. . . .
    Read more at A Balanced Life



  26. When?
    Poet Unknown


    When fortune with a smiling face
    Strews roses on our way,
    When shall we stop to pick them up?
    Today, my love, today!
    But should she frown with face of care
    And speak of coming sorrow,
    When shall we grieve, if grieve we must?
    Tomorrow, love, tomorrow!

    If those who've wronged us own their fault.
    And kindly pity, pray
    When shall we listen and forgive?
    Today, my love, today!
    But if stern justice urge rebuke.
    And warmth from memory borrow,
    When shall we chide, if chide we must?
    Tomorrow, love, tomorrow!



  27. The Light He Leaves
    Poet: H. W. Longfellow


    Were a star quenched on high.
    For ages would its light,
    Still travelling downward from the sky,
    Shine on our mortal sight.

    So when a great man dies.
    For years beyond our ken,
    The light he leaves behind him lies
    Upon the paths of men.



  28. every problem has a gift for you in its hands
    Poems On Life Lessons



  29. Only A Moment
    Poet: P. B. Davis


    Only one little moment;
    All our work to be done -
    Sheaves of a life-time gathered,
    Victories lost or won.

    No time to be standing idle;
    No time to be gazing back
    To the flowers we leave ungathered-
    We can not retrace the track.

    No time for vain repining
    O'er battles we have lost;
    Nor after every conquest
    To sit and count the cost.

    No time for idle dreaming
    Of victories to be won,
    Of pleasures that may greet us
    When the moment's work is done.

    No time for hate and malice;
    No time for idle strife
    We've only just a moment
    In which to live a life.

    Only one little moment;
    All our work to be done -
    Sheaves of a life-time gathered,
    Victories lost or won.


  30. Related:

    Poems About Life Struggles

    This Too Shall Pass Poems

    Poems About Trouble

    Poems About Conflict

    Sad Poems


    Back to Table of Contents


    Time and Reflection

    These poems inspire us to pause, reflect, and appreciate how time shapes our lives.


  31. What Is This Life
    Poet: W. H. Davies

    What is this life if, full of care,
    We have no time to stand and stare?—
    No time to stand beneath the boughs,
    And stare as long as sheep and cows:

    No time to see, when woods we pass,
    Where squirrels hide their nuts in grass:
    No time to see, in broad daylight,
    Streams full of stars, like skies at night:

    No time to turn at Beauty's glance,
    And watch her feet, how they can dance:
    No time to wait till her mouth can
    Enrich that smile her eyes began?

    A poor life this if, full of care,
    We have no time to stand and stare.



  32. Life's Golden Goblet
    Poet: Nellie Olsen


    A golden goblet each man holds,
    Its contents energy,
    And how we use this rare wine molds
    Our endless destiny.

    No life so mean but holds this power -
    Oh, wondrous, priceless draught!
    While hour by hour men ever pour
    It forth, and prize it not.

    Whatever way this vital force
    Is used, results obtain;
    For we may bring forth fruit perforce
    Of weeds or perfect grain.

    Some choose to spill this golden wine
    On fleeting things of time,
    Nor realize the gift's divine,
    And life a charge sublime.

    Then wisely pour the nectar forth;
    The greatest good secure
    From deeds that have the highest worth
    And ever shall endure.

    Seek not for deepest soul content
    From earthly sources, then,
    But let your choicest force be spent
    In doing good to men.



  33. A Little Loving
    Poet: Catherine Pulsifer


    We usually find love with family and friends
    But sometimes there is no love to that end
    Get out and find those who need help
    The love you get back will make your heart melt

    Volunteer, get involved with a church, find a need
    Watch love grow, like the watering of a seed.
    You not only help others, but people you will meet
    And over time you will find a love that is sweet. . . .
    Read more at A Little Loving



  34. When Does Life Begin
    Poet: Catherine Pulsifer, © 2020



    Does life begin when you obtain more things?
    Or does life begin when you make big earnings?
    Does life begin when tomorrow dawns
    Or does tomorrow just make you yawn?

    The only life we have to live
    Is today, the day we have to give
    Don't wait for a certain thing
    For happiness to bring.

    Live each day and live it full
    Don't waste it and be a fool
    Begin each day and be thankful for
    All that the day has in store!



  35. Begin each day and be thankful for All that the day has in store!


  36. The Sculptor-Boy
    Poet: W. C. Doane


    Chisel in hand stood a sculptor-boy,
    With his marble block before him;
    And his face lit up with a smile of joy
    As ah angel-dream passed o'er him.
    He carved that dream on the yielding stone
    With many a sharp incision;
    In Heaven's own light the sculptor shone -
    He had caught that angel-vision.

    Sculptors of life are we as we stand
    With our lives uncarved before us,
    Waiting the hour, when, at God's command,
    Our life-dream passes o'er us.
    Let us carve it, then, on the shielding stone.
    With many a sharp incision;
    Its heavenly beauty shall be our own -
    Our lives, that angel-vision.



  37. The Simple Things In Life
    Poet: Julie Hebert


    The simple things in life,
    Are usually in front of your eyes.
    All you have to do each day,
    Is look up into the skies.

    Look at the beauty around you,
    Run and play outside.
    Find what you've been missing,
    Look what's in front, in back and beside. . . .
    Read the complete poem at Simple Things



  38. Downsizing Means
    Poet: Catherine Pulsifer, © 2015

    My previous life when I heard the term
    downsizing meant a turn for worse
    But now we are talking not about a job
    We are talking about a smaller home

    Letting go of space
    Letting go of material things
    Less room
    Will this be doom?

    But the benefits to me
    Less housework you see
    Lower heating costs
    And a cozier house

    So now when I hear the term
    Downsizing means
    Living simply with
    The things that mean something to me!


  39. Related:

    Growing Old Poems

    Poems About Health

    Poetry About Life and Death

    Simplicity Poems

    Poems About Living A Simple Life


    Back to Table of Contents


    Gratitude and Appreciation

    Celebrate the beauty of life with poems that express thankfulness for its many blessings.


  40. Your Life
    Poet: Julie Hebert, © 2011

    Each day we are given is a gift,
    And a gift we always should appreciate.
    When time starts to run together,
    It's then that our time depreciates.

    So try to slow and take each day,
    Only one at a time.
    Life will always have its ups and downs,
    But the ups are more fun to climb.

    Every morning awake to accomplish something,
    Should be on your mind.
    So choose your thought for the day,
    And do it and then unwind.

    If every day you have a goal,
    And every day it gets done.
    Life will never run away,
    And life will be much more fun.



  41. Happy Times
    Poet: Kate Summers

    Holidays are meant to be
    Happy times for all to see
    The time may be a special occasion
    Or it may be a two week vacation.

    No matter what the holiday
    Whether at home or away
    Be sure to relax, fun to be had
    A time for all to be glad.



  42. Life Will Yield
    Poet: Unknown


    We must not hope to be mowers,
    And to gather the ripe, golden ears,
    Unless we have first been sowers,
    And watered the flowers with tears.

    It is not just as we take it,
    This wonderful world of ours
    Life’s field will yield as we make it
    A harvest of thorns or of flowers.



  43. Life’s field will yield as we make it A harvest of thorns or of flowers.


  44. Red Geraniums
    by Martha Haskell Clark

    Life did not bring me silken gowns,
    Nor jewels for my hair,
    Nor signs of gabled foreign towns
    In distant countries fair,
    But I can glimpse, beyond my pane, a green and friendly hill,
    And red geraniums aflame upon my window sill.

    The brambled cares of everyday,
    The tiny humdrum things,
    May bind my feet when they would stray,
    But still my heart has wings
    While red geraniums are bloomed against my window glass,
    And low above my green-sweet hill the gypsy wind-clouds pass.

    And if my dreamings ne’er come true,
    The brightest and the best,
    But leave me lone my journey through,
    I’ll set my heart at rest,
    And thank God for home-sweet things, a green and friendly hill,
    And red geraniums aflame upon my window sill.



  45. Little Things
    Poet: Catherine Pulsifer, © 2020

    Simple things are the little things
    Such happiness they can bring
    From watching a sunrise
    To giving a child a simple surprise.

    If we stop and look and see
    How simple things in life can be
    The best and happiest times
    During our life journey climb.


  46. Related:

    Home Sweet Home Poems

    Poems About Home

    Be Thankful Poems

    Apology Poems

    Respect Poems


    Back to Table of Contents


    Relationships and Connection

    Poems about the meaningful connections we form with others and how relationships enrich our lives.


  47. This Life Is What We Make It
    Poet: Maria Frink


    Let's oftener talk of noble deeds,
    And rarer of the bad ones,
    And sing about our happy days,
    And not about the sad ones.
    We are not made to fret and sigh,
    And when grief sleeps to wake it:
    Bright happiness is standing by -
    This life is what we make it.

    Let's find the sunny side of men,
    Or be believers in it;
    A light there is in every soul
    That takes the pains to win it.
    Oh! there's a slumbering good in all;
    And we perchance may wake it
    Our hands contain the magic wand -
    This life is what we make it.

    Then here's to those whose loving hearts
    Shed light and joy about them!
    Thanks be them for countless gems
    We ne'er had known without them.
    Oh! this should be a happy world
    To all who may partake it:
    The fault's our own if it is not -
    This life is what we make it.



  48. Values Life
    John Sterling


    A happy lot must sure be his--
    The lord, not slave, of things--
    Who values life by what it is
    And not by what it brings.



  49. Everybody Is Lonesome
    Poet Unknown

    Way down deep within their hearts
    Everybody's lonesome;
    Far within their secret parts
    Everybody's lonesome.
    Makes no difference how they smile,
    How they live or what their style;
    Once in every little while
    Everybody's lonesome.

    People first in big affairs —
    Even they are lonesome.
    Maybe like to put on airs;
    Just the same, they're lonesome.
    Men for whom existence blends
    Every good; who gain all ends,
    Still reach out their hands for friends;
    Everybody's lonesome.

    Women, silk-clad, jeweled fine.
    Yes, they, too, are lonesome;
    When their gems the brightest shine.
    They are just as lonesome.
    Some must serve and some command.
    All still seek, with groping hand.
    Love, and friends who understand.
    Everybody's lonesome.

    Though your gift of friendship's small
    Everybody's lonesome.
    It may answer someone's call;
    Someone who is lonesome.
    Give, and give with might and main;
    Give your hands, and join the chain,
    And your gift will be your gain
    Some time, when you're lonesome.



  50. Real Life
    Poet: James Freeman Clarke


    To know that there are some souls, hearts and minds,
    Here and there who trust us and whom we trust:
    Some who know us and whom we know:
    Some on whom we can always rely and
    Who always rely upon us,
    Makes a paradise of this great world:
    This makes our life really life.



  51. We aren't content to have everything remain the same forever. Even if we think we want that, it's not possible.  Life happens, circumstances change, and we have to locate a boat and set out on a new adventure.  Colette Baron Reid, Uncharted
    Funny Poems About Life



  52. The Neighborly Man
    Poet: Edgar A. Guest


    Some are eager to be famous, some are striving to be great,
    Some are toiling to be leaders of their nation or their state,
    And in every man's ambition, if we only understood,
    There is much that's fine and splendid; every hope is mostly good.
    So I cling unto the notion that contented I will be
    If the men upon life's pathway find a needed friend in me.

    I rather like to putter 'round the walks and yards of life.
    To spray at night the roses that are burned and browned with strife;
    To eat a frugal dinner, but always to have a chair
    For the unexpected stranger that my simple meal would share.
    I don't care to be a traveler, I would rather be the one
    Sitting calmly by the roadside helping weary travelers on.

    I'd like to be a neighbor in the good old-fashioned way,
    Finding much to do for others, but not over much to say.
    I like to read the papers, but I do not yearn to see
    What the journal of the morning has been moved to say of me;
    In the silences and shadows I would live my life and die
    And depend for fond remembrance on some grateful passers-by.

    I guess I wasn't fashioned for the brilliant things of earth.
    Wasn't gifted much with talent or designed for special worth,
    But was just sent here to putter with life's little odds and ends
    And keep a simple corner where the stirring highway bends,
    And if folks should chance to linger, worn and weary through the day.
    To do some needed service and to cheer them on their way.


  53. Related:

    Little Things Poems

    Poems About Colors

    Poems on Adventure

    Poems About Travel

    Holiday Poems


    Back to Table of Contents


    Reflections on Life

    Poems about the meaningful connections we form with others and how relationships enrich our lives.


  54. The Happy Life
    Poet: Thomas Campion


    The man of life upright,
    Whose guiltless heart is free
    From all dishonest deeds,
    Or thought of vanity;

    The man whose silent days
    In harmless joys are spent,
    Whom hopes cannot delude,
    Nor sorrow discontent, -

    That man needs neither towers
    Nor armour for defence.
    Nor secret vaults to fly
    From thunder's violence:

    He only can behold
    With unaffrighted eyes
    The horrors of the deep
    And terrors of the skies.

    Thus, scorning all the cares
    That fate or fortune brings,
    He makes the heaven his book,
    His wisdom heavenly things:

    Good thoughts his only friends,
    His wealth a well-spent age,
    The earth his sober inn
    And quiet pilgrimage.



  55. life is beautiful open your eyes and be inspired by the beauty that surrounds you!
    Poems About Beauty



  56. Life As A School
    Poet: Maltbie Davenport Babcock


    Lord, let me make this rule
    To think of life as school,
    And try my best
    To stand each test,
    And do my work,
    And nothing shirk.

    Should some one else outshine
    This dullard head of mine,
    Should I be sad?
    I will be glad,
    To do my best
    Is Thy behest.

    Some day the bell will sound,
    Some day my heart will bound,
    As with a shout
    That school is out,
    And lessons done,
    I homeward run.



  57. What Is Life To You?
    Poet: Unknown


    To the preacher life's a sermon,
    To the joker life's a jest.
    To the miser life is money.
    To the loafer life is rest;
    To the lawyer life's a trial;
    To the poet life's a song;
    To the doctor life's a patient
    That needs treatment right along.
    To the soldier life's a battle,
    To the teacher life's a school.
    Life's a good thing to the grafter,
    It's a failure to the fool.
    To the man upon the engine

    Life's a long and heavy grade;
    It's a gamble to the gambler,
    To the mrechant life is trade.
    Life is but a long vacation
    To the man who loves his work;
    Life's an everlasting effort
    To shun duty, to the shirk.
    To the earnest Christian worker
    Life's a story ever new;
    Life is what we try to make it -
    Brother, what is life to you?


  58. Related:

    Famous Poems About Life

    Train Of Life Poem

    Fire and Ice Poem

    The Man In The Glass Poem


    Back to Table of Contents


Key Reflections in these Poems About Life:

  • Resilience - Life’s challenges are a part of the journey, and facing them can foster personal growth and strength.


  • Perspective - Viewing hardships as opportunities for reflection can lead to deeper insights and appreciation for life.


  • Connection - Building meaningful relationships enhances our experiences, reminding us of the beauty and support found in community.


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Life is beautiful if we see it that way. We hope these poems give you thoughts on the essence of happiness and contentment that life can offer. Celebrate the gift of life! Life can be a struggle created by ourselves, as it all comes down to our attitude and how we see the world around us. May our collection of short poems about life be ones that you share with others.





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