Life Is a Privilege
The poem explores the idea that life is a precious gift and a privilege to be cherished. It emphasizes the importance of living in the present moment, appreciating beauty, and cultivating a sense of gratitude. The speaker urges the reader to make the most of their time on earth, to love and be loved, and to find joy in everyday experiences.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1914 · Genre: Poetry, Inspirational, Philosophical · 365 words
First lines
Life is a privilege. Its youthful days Shine with the radiance of continuous Mays. To live, to breathe, to wonder and desire, To feed with dreams the heart's perpetual fire, To thrill with virtuous passions, and to glow With great ambitions-in one hour to know The depths and heights of feeling-God! in truth, How beautiful, how beautiful is youth!
Life is a privilege. Like some rare rose The mysteries of the human mind unclose. What marvels lie in earth, and air, and sea! What stores of knowledge wait our opening key! What sunny roads of happiness lead out Beyond the realms of indolence and doubt! And what large pleasures smile upon and bless The busy avenues of usefulness!
What this Textopian page supports
Life Is a Privilege is listed on Textopian as a poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox, dated 1914 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Date: 1914 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Inspirational, Philosophical, Religious, Self-Help
- Length: 365 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Life Is a Privilege by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
- As You Go Through Life by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- The Things That Count by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Worth Living by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Why Should We Sigh by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Earnestness by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Lifes Car by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse and employs poetic devices such as rhyme and meter.
- Inspirational — The themes focus on the beauty and privilege of life, encouraging a positive outlook.
- Philosophical — The text explores deep questions about the nature of life, existence, and the human experience.
- Religious — The work references God and spiritual themes, particularly in the context of life's journey and purpose.
Tags
Inspiration · Motivation · Philosophy · Poetry · Self-Help · Personal Growth · Spirituality · Optimism · Positive Thinking · Well-being · Happiness · Mindfulness