Work hard, my son. Success does not simply happen. A butterfly is most graceful when it is flying. What joy you will find in the work of your hand creating beauty, making a difference in the lives you touch. Though it can be tiring Work hard, my son. Success does not simply happen regardless of how hard you wish or imagine You do not become a better man by whining. What joy you will find in the work of your hand offered to others in service and compassion. Remember, idle souls are the devil's darling- Work hard, my son. Success does not simply happen. The most valuable treasures are deeply hidden and open themselves to hearts persevering. What joy you will find in the work of your hand -to know that more precious than fame or fortune is living your reason for existing.rewards far more precious than fame or fortune are a good character and a life with meaning. Work hard, my son. Success does not simply happen. What joy you will find in the work of your hands!
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Written for DVERSE POETS’ PUB’s Meeting the Bar-Villanelle, inspired by my recurring words to my sons who would rather play games than study their lessons. Of course, they do not listen and I do not think they will be thrilled about this piece. But maybe, when they are older……. 🙂
MY WALL 
Love it! Great stuff! You’ve got my follow. Check out my comedy blog and give it a follow if you like it!
Great advice. I am sure one day they will realize 🙂
I just read this to my son — made me sound like a wise parent. Love it. And great reminder to self. Thanks, Imelda. 🙂
and thanks and welcome to you, Colin.
Love this encouraging poem to your son, Imelda. Agree with your sentiments here. If we want something, we should be prepared to work for it. What we want won’t always appear in front overnight. A lot of the time we have to go after it and in turn become a better person. Hope you are enjoying walks out and about this summer 🙂
Thanks, Mabel. I am sure, you have learned the lesson from your mom so well. 🙂
Yes, we enjoy our walks. We just spent about 2 hours just walking in a state park this afternoon. My husband is shocked to learn that I like walking. I used to complain a lot walking around our neighborhood. I told him, walking in the woods is quite different – safer, quieter, prettier.
I too like walking. It is just so relaxing. I hope you get to walk more soon, and take more photos. Enjoy summer and Happy Solstice 🙂
I liked the theme of the joy of working hard. As you develop this idea it implies a good character and a meaningful life through service and compassion. I agree with the message. I liked how the repeated lines emphasized this point. Very nice.
Thanks, Frank.
My eldest son also prefers the original lines. According to him, they left some mystery in the poem. 🙂
I love the repetition in this poem. As a parent I found myself saying several things over and over to my children. So this really spoke to me as to not only what advice we give our children but how we give it to them through repeatedly expressing our values to them. (Although they might call it nagging! 🙂 )
You know, after I was done with the piece, I did feel like nagging my sons, which is really not new. 🙂 🙂
This is like my father would have told me… I think this is sound advice for anyone…. also a daughter…
Yeah, “daughter” can be put in place of “son”. I happen to have only sons that’s why. 🙂 Thanks, Bjorn.
I like the butterfly grace and your advice
Thanks, Laura. 🙂
When they grow a little older, they will realize the wisdom of your words ~ There is joy and satisfaction in working hard for that success ~
I hope so. 🙂 Thanks, Grace for the kind words.
An important lesson to learn!
What a great use for this form!
Thanks, Rosemary. 🙂
The best of advice delivered so beautifully must serve as inspirational to your sons. Thank you for sharing.
Thank you and welcome, Ms. Jenner. Have a great week. 🙂
great advice and so very true every kid should read! thank you for sharing Imelda! beautiful family you have! 🙂
Great advice! And I’m quite sure one day you will be surprised when they show you that they were listening after all! 😀