Better Late Than Never

Better Late Than Never
 
Life is a race where some succeed,
     While others are beginning;
’Tis luck at times, at others speed,
     That gives an early winning.
But if you chance to fall behind,
     Ne’er slacken your endeavor,
But keep this wholesome truth in mind,
     ’Tis better late than never.
 
If you can keep ahead, ’tis well,
     But never trip your neighbor;
’Tis noble when you can excel
     By honest, patient labor;
But if you are outstripped at last,
     Press on as bold as ever;
Remember, though you are surpassed,
     ’Tis better late than never.
 
Ne’er labor for an idle boast
     Of victory o’er another;
But while you strive your uttermost,
     Deal fairly with a brother.
What’er your station, do your best,
     And hold your purpose ever,
And if you fail to beat the rest,
     ’Tis better late than never.
 
Choose well the path in which you run,
     Succeed by noble daring;
Then, though the last, when once ’tis won,
     Your crown is worth the wearing.
Then never fret if left behind,
     Nor slacken your endeavor,
But ever keep this truth in mind
     ’Tis better late than never.
 
By Author Unknown