I found this comforting little poem in William J. Bennett’s “Moral Compass” – a wonderful compilation of mostly forgotten stories, fables, and poetry that we used to value as sage advice for navigating life’s winding paths. There’s no attribution, so I’m not sure of the original source, but these words of wisdom are inspired, and timeless ~
 

Three Things
 
I know three things must always be,
To keep a nation strong and free.
One is a hearthstone bright and dear,
With busy, happy loved ones near.
One is a ready heart and hand
To love and serve and keep the land.
One is the worn and beaten way
To where the people go to pray.
So long as these are kept alive,
Nations and people will survive.
God keep them always everywhere –
The home, the heart, the place of prayer.