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True and Patient
Discover a timeless poem exploring love’s foundation: truth, patience, and trustworthiness.
Love is a journey that requires more than feelings; it also takes effort and character. True and Patient is a timeless poem that highlights three important qualities for a successful and lasting relationship: being true, being discreet, and being patient. These qualities help build trust, understanding, and lasting love.
The poem reminds us that without patience, honesty, and trustworthiness, love can struggle. As you read, reflect on how these values can bring strength and depth to your relationships. Let the poem encourage you to nurture love with patience, truth, and care.
For more verses that celebrate affection, commitment, and the special bond between two people, enjoy our collection of Short Love Poems.
Updated September 21, 2026, by Catherine Pulsifer.
True & Patient
Poet: William Dunbar
If ye would love and loved be,
In mind keep well these things three.
And sadly in thy breast imprint, -
Be secret, true and patient!
For he that patience can not leir,
He shall displeasance have perquier,
Though he had all this world's rent:
Be secret, true and patient!
For who that secret cannot be,
Him all good fellowship shall flee,
And credence none shall him be lent:
Be secret, true and patient!
And he that is of heart untrue,
From he be ken'd farewell! adieu!
Fie on him! fie! his fame is went:
Be secret, true and patient!
Thus he that wants ane of these three
Ane lover glad may never be,
But aye in some thing discontent:
Be secret, true and patient!
'Nought with thy tongue thyself discure
The thing is that thou hast of nature;
For if thou dost, thou shalt recen:
Be secret, true and patient!
Key Reflections In This Poem
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Patience Helps Love Endure
Love will not always be easy, and relationships will have their ups and downs. The poem reminds us that patience helps us remain calm, understanding, and committed when difficulties arise.
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Trustworthiness Strengthens Relationships
When the poet tells us to be secret, he points to the importance of discretion and trustworthiness. Someone who shares another person's private thoughts carelessly can quickly weaken the trust that holds a relationship together.
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Truth Is Essential To Love
Honesty allows two people to trust one another and build a stronger relationship. The poem warns that an untrue heart can damage both love and reputation.
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All Three Qualities Work Together
The poet emphasizes that patience, truth, and discretion are all important. Missing even one of these qualities can create unhappiness and discontent in love.
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Words Should Be Used With Care
The final stanza reminds us to think before we speak. Some things are better kept in confidence, and careless words can cause hurt that may be difficult to undo.
Popular Pages
Explore more poems and quotes about love, patience, commitment, and the qualities that help relationships grow stronger.
Love takes understanding, commitment, and effort, themes also explored in Love Is Not Easy.
Read Famous Love Poems for timeless verses that reflect on affection, devotion, and the many ways love touches our lives.
Find encouragement to remain calm and understanding through these Patience Quotes that remind us why patience matters in life and relationships.
Sometimes a few meaningful words can express a great deal, as you'll discover in these Short Love Quotes.
Conclusion
True and Patient offers a simple message that remains meaningful today. Love grows stronger when we are truthful, trustworthy, and patient with one another. These qualities may not always be easy to practice, but they help create the confidence and understanding that lasting relationships need.
The poem also reminds us that the way we speak and act matters. When we protect another person's trust, speak truthfully, and show patience during difficult moments, we give love room to deepen and grow. May these old words encourage us to practice these timeless qualities in the relationships we value most.
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