The Sweet Victory of Gentleness

A kind reply to angry words?
Outrageous to suggest,
when insult and abuse you've heard
toward what you prize the best.

Well, should his scowl and talk so rude
cause harshness to your soul?
With restraint and gentle attitude,
you've avoided his control.

The very thing that would seem strength
may defeat our hoped-for goal,
while a calm and friendly air, at length,
wins the day and revives the soul.