The Harder Task

Teach me to live! 'Tis easier far to die--
  Gently and silently to pass away--
On earth's long night to close the heavy eye,
  And waken in the glorious realms of day.

Teach me that harder lesson--how to live
  To serve Thee in the darkest paths of life.
Arm me for conflict, now fresh vigor give,
  And make me more than conqu'ror in the
    strife.
--Author unknown