Learn To Listen

Learn to listen, like a teddy bear,
With ears open and mouth closed tight.

Learn to forgive like a teddy bear,
With an open heart, not caring who is right.

Learn to love like a teddy bear,
With arms open and imperfect eyesight.

Do not ask for your life's load lightened,
But for courage to endure.

Do not ask for fulfillment in all your life,
Do not ask for perfection in all you do.,
But for wisdom not to repeat mistakes.

And finally, do not ask for more,
Before saying "Thank You,"
For what you have already received.

If you're looking for somebody to blame -- 
Look in the mirror.

There is no challenge that cannot be met,
And dream that cannot be achieved.

Written by one of the kids that passed through the Covenant House in NY