Smile in the face of adversity, 
No matter how bad your pain, 
It's do or die, and that is why, 
We have everything to gain. 
Smile in the face of adversity, 
Keep your head held high, 
Don't let yourself be beaten, 
It doesn't do any good to cry! 

Smile in the face of adversity, 
Don't back yourself into a wall, 
Do not bend or break, 
Or you're heading for a fall. 
Smile in the face of adversity, 
And when death faces you head on, 
Be strong and bold, never break, 
And believe me, you'll know you've won. 

Smile in the face of adversity, 
And when death knocks, don't let him in, 
Because no matter the pain and suffering, 
We sure as hell can still win! 
Smile in the face of adversity, 
If at all you can, 
Be strong of heart and soul, 
And face it head on like I am! 

Smile in the face of adversity, 
Fight on, but never give in, 
And no matter how bad things seem, 
You always play to win! 
Smile in the face of adversity, 
When you're given yet another trial, 
Don't go backwards, go forwards, 
Always go that one last mile! 

Smile in the face of adversity, 
And no matter the news you get, 
Still you strive and go forward, 
You don't have to die just yet! 
Smile in the face of adversity, 
And no matter the cards they deal, 
Continue to fight, every single night, 
Even though the body won't heal! 

Smile in the face of adversity 
Another day, another fight… 
Stand your ground, don't back down, 
And you'll live another night! 
Smile in the face of adversity, 
When they say you're life's at an end, 
Right to the last, never give in, 
Never break and never bend! 

Smile in the face of adversity, 
I do this every day, you see, 
Coz nothing they say or do… 
Will never, ever defeat me! 
Smile in the face of adversity, 
Coz at the end of the day, 
Whatever will be will be, 
But tomorrow's a brand new day. 

Smile in the face of adversity, 
Go through life on a smile, 
Every day is a fight we must win, 
Remember that one last mile? 
Smile in the face of adversity, 
Know deep down in your heart, 
We can only fight, with all our might, 
Before we have to depart! 

Smile in the face of adversity, 
Stare death in the eye! 
face your fears head on, 
And never question why! 

Smile in the face of adversity, 
And know this to be true, 
We shall prevail, read my tale, 
We can do this, me and you! 

©Catherine Inglesby 1976

Jendhamuni and a little girl (relative of the deceased) at the Funeral Service of Mr. Samoeun Mey on Saturday February 2, 2013.

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