Love by Robert G. Ingersoll

I thank Donald for posting the video of my speech at the contest, and have been looking for a reason to photograph and post the following, and he's provided that perfect opportunity and forum.

One of the prizes of the Ingersoll Oratory Contest was a really beautiful vintage poster featuring a photo of Bob and his two grandchildren. It also features the poem he wrote titled "Love". I remember seeing this poster for a quick second the previous year during the awards ceremony, but it wasn't until I received a copy was I able to read it and was honestly quite touched by the words. For the benefit of those in my situation, or just fans of Ingersoll or anyone who could be inspired by a few words...

Transcribed:

LOVE

Love is the only bow on life's dark cloud. It is the morning and evening star. It shines upon the babe, and sheds its radiance on the quiet tomb. It is the mother of art, inspirer of poet, patriot and philosopher. It is the air and light of every heart--builder of every home, kindler of every fire in every hearth. It was the first to dream of immortality. It fills the world with melody--for music is the voice of love. Love is the magician, the enchanter, that changes worthless things to joy, and makes right royal kings and queens of the common clay. It is the perfume of that wondrous flower, the heart, and without that sacred passion, that divine swoon, we are less than beasts; but with it, earth is heaven, and we are gods.

 (signed) Robt. G. Ingersoll