Submission by: Navneet Deol, OMS III

When I think of a daily dose humanities the first thing that comes to my mind is the healing power of poetry.

To me, art is anything that can evoke an emotional connection, and some of the most powerful emotions can be preserved and shared when emotions can be translated into words.

This poem by 20th Century American poet Edgar Guest, “Have You Earned Your Tomorrow” is a humbling piece that reminds me of the importance of daily reflection on the type of human connections we create each day.

For tomorrow may not be promised, but knowing you did your best with your today may make your tomorrow even more rewarding and joyful.

So take a moment to connect with this poem, and let us know how you feel. Do you think your today has earned your tomorrow?

Have You Earned Your Tomorrow?

-Edgar Albert Guest

Is anybody happier because you passed his way?
     Does anyone remember that you spoke to him today?
This day is almost over, and its toiling time is through;
     Is there anyone to utter now a kindly word of you?

Did you give a cheerful greeting to the friend who came along?
Or a churlish sort of “Howdy” and then vanish in the throng?
Were you selfish pure and simple as you rushed along the way,
Or is someone mighty grateful for a deed you did today?

Can you say tonight, in parting with the day that’s slipping fast,
     That you helped a single brother of the many that you passed?
Is a single heart rejoicing over what you did or said;
     Does a man whose hopes were fading now with courage look ahead?

Did you waste the day, or lose it, was it well or sorely spent?
     Did you leave a trail of kindness or a scar of discontent?
As you close your eyes in slumber do you think that God would say,
     You have earned one more tomorrow by the work you did today?

Source: https://www.familyfriendpoems.com/poem/have-you-earned-your-tomorrow-by-edgar-albert-guest