“Success” by Bessie Stanley

I read the following poem by Bessie Stanley (1904) – “Success” many years ago and it resonated with me and still does today. The poem is often contributed to Ralph Waldo Emerson and Robert Louis Stevenson.

Personally, I like the way Bessie has referred to success. Many people attribute success to material possessions or extrinsic goals.

“Success” by Bessie Stanley

“He has achieved success who has lived well,
laughed often and loved much;
who has gained the respect of intelligent men
and the love of little children;
who has filled his niche and accomplished his task;
who has left the world better than he found it,
whether by an improved poppy, a perfect poem, or a rescued soul;
who has never lacked appreciation of earth’s beauty
or failed to express it;
who has always looked for the best in others
and given them the best he had;
whose life was an inspiration;
whose memory a benediction.”

Reflection…

1. What is success and/or fulfilment for you?
2. How will you know you have reached success and/or fulfilment in your life?
3. If you knew you could be successful what would be your first step?

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