WORK IS THE FATHER OF JOY.
What gives the cheerfulness of heart
except you, work, that my strength dare,
on that most thoughtful and dear verse
that could steal all my greatest care.

I started writing day and night,
but none of value could appear,
yet l was certain that my work
would give results my heart would cheer.

My labour was not gauged by wealth
but by expecting a surprise.
It was too late, but l was sure
that something would abruptly rise.

No jewels would confer a sign
but work would make me shun wrong deeds.
I kept on working, now l find
a sort of joy my feeling needs.
BY JOSEPH ZENIEH
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
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