I ask not a life for the dear ones, All radiant, as others have done, But that life may have just enough shadow To temper the glare of the sun; I would pray God to guard them from evil, But my prayer would bound back to myself: Ah! a seraph may pray for a sinner, But a sinner must pray for himself.

I don't believe in school prayer. I think it's total nonsense...who is the teacher there that is going to have them pray? And is the teacher going to be Catholic or Mormon or Episcopalian or what? It just causes all sorts of problems. And what are the kids praying about anyway? Does it really matter, does praying in school...what are you doing it for? The whole thing just opens up all sorts of elements of discussion. I think it's crazy.

Prayer is the little implement through which men reach; where presence is denied them.

Example isn't another way to teach, it is the only way to teach.

The twig is so easily bended I have banished the rule and the rod: I have taught them the goodness of knowledge, They have taught me the goodness of God; My heart is the dungeon of darkness, When I shut them for breaking a rule; My frown is sufficient correction; My love is the law of the school.

When the lessons and tasks are all ended, And the school for the day is dismissed, The little one gather around me, To bid me good-night and be kissed; On, the little white arms that encircle My neck in their tender embrace Oh, the smiles that are halos of heaven, Shedding sunshine of love on my face.