The path around the house -- the way The common folks use ev'ry day, Near neighbors, and the family -- Why, that has always seemed to me The very best of all to be! Of course we have a sidewalk there In front that's swept and kept with care. The big front door it leads you to, And knock and they will welcome you -- But that's the way that strangers do. But not "the folks," your very own. Between the boards the grass has grown, The front door way. An endless tide Keeps smooth and hard and glorified The little path around the side: The children laughing with delight When school lets out; and then at night Comes Father, weary with the day, Yet glad to work if only they Can grow and learn and run and play; The friends who friends have always been; The neighbors who have just run in; And all of those who never need An invitation first to read Or any etiquette to heed. The folks who really love you come Around the house. It seems that some Will use the front door to the end -- But, when around the house they wend, Well, then you know you've got a friend. The front's for strangers and for style, The calling card and frozen smile; The path around is set apart For folks who aren't proud or smart, But walk right into house and heart. |