But two ways are offered to our will – Toil with rare triumph, Ease with safe disgrace: – Nor deem that acts heroic wait on chance! The man’s whole life precludes the single deed That shall decide if his inheritance Be with the sifted few of matchless breed, Or with the unmotivated herd that only sleep and feed.
~ Lowell, p.36, The Cloud of Witness, emphasis mine
A.M. Pine - Hearth Ridge Reflections 
Amy, this hit home this morning! I’ve been feeling so down and unsure of my creative endeavors and my abilities. I forget that the triumphs are often rare or even realized. Thank you for this.
Love,
A
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes, it really touched me deeply, too! ♥️
LikeLike
Reblogged this on Author Adrienne Morris and commented:
Love this …
LikeLiked by 1 person