I Often Wonder Why 'Tis So

Some find work where some find rest,      And so the weary world goes on:     I sometimes wonder which is best;      The answer comes when life is gone.     Some eyes sleep when some eyes wake,      And so the dreary night-hours go;     Some hearts beat where some hearts break;      I often wonder why 'tis so.     Some wills faint where some wills fight,      Some love the tent, and some the field;     I often wonder who are right --      The ones who strive, or those who yield?     Some hands fold where other hands      Are lifted bravely in the strife;     And so thro' ages and thro' lands      Move on the two extremes of life.     Some feet halt where some feet tread,      In tireless march, a thorny way;     Some struggle on where some have fled;      Some seek when others shun the fray.     Some swords rust where others clash,      Some fall back where some move on;     Some flags furl where others flash      Until the battle has been won.     Some sleep on while others keep      The vigils of the true and brave:     They will not rest till roses creep      Around their name above a grave.