A little dreaming by the way, br A little toiling day by day; br A little pain, a little strife, br A little joy,--and that is life. br br A little short-lived summer's morn, br When joy seems all so newly born, br When one day's sky is blue above, br And one bird sings,--and that is love. br br A little sickening of the years, br The tribute of a few hot tears br Two folded hands, the failing breath, br And peace at last,--and that is death.