I want to teach my students how to live this life on earth,

To face its struggle and its strife¹ and improve their worth.

Not just the lesson in a book or how the rivers flow,

But how to choose the proper path wherever they may go.

To understand eternal² truth and know the right from wrong,

And gather all the beauty of a flower and a song.

For if I help the world to grow in wisdom and in grace³,

Then, I shall feel that I have won and I have filled my place.

And so I ask my guidance, God, that I may do my part,

For character and confidence and happiness of heart.