Kindness

It is a fine, a noble thought 
When day is done and night has brought 
The contemplative hours and sweet, 
And rest to weary hearts and feet, 
If man can stand in truth and say: 
I have been useful here to-day. 
Back there is one I chanced to see 
With hope newborn because of me. 

This day in honor I have toiled; 
My shining crest is still unsoiled; 
But on the mile I leave behind 
Is one who says that I was kind; 
And someone hums a cheerful song 
Because I chanced to come along. 
Sweet rest at night that man shall own 
Who has not lived his day alone.

- Edgar Guest, "The Finer Thought"