Words of Wisdom From Shel Silverstein

Happy Birthday Shel Silverstein! Although the author is no longer with us, parents continue to share his work before bedtime or on a rainy afternoon. And with every poem read, there is a lesson to learn. See some of our favorite words of wisdom from the late, and great, Shel Silverstein. What's your favorite Shel Silverstein poem?

Never fear the unknown.

It's better to "leave the place where the smoke blows black, and the dark street winds and bends," even if you don't know what's on the other side. — Where the Sidewalk Ends

Always take the garbage out.

It may not be fun, but if you don't do this chore then your trash will "reache across the state, from New York to the Golden Gate." — Sarah Cynthia Sylvia Stout Would Not Take the Garbage Out

Use your imagination.

That lost puzzle piece could be, "a magical bean,or a fold in the red velvet robe of a queen." — Picture Puzzle Piece

Never lose your head.

It's the hardest thing to find. After all, "you can't call to it, 'cause your mouth is on it." — Loser

Remember the days of the week.

Photo: You never want to fake sick only to learn it's Saturday. -- Sick

Ignore the negative voices.

Never let the "meaner and duller" people get you down. — Us

Never ride in shoes with strangers.

Or, more realistically, cars. Especially if the drivers are named Ickle Me, Pickle Me, or Tickle Me. — Ickle Me, Pickle Me, Tickle Me Too

A tug-o-war never solves anything.

But in a hug-o-war, everyone wins. — Hug O War

It's ok to be small.

After all, with the exception of writing, everything is easier when you're one inch tall. — One Inch Tall

Whenever you can, give.

Your actions may not always be appreciated, but in the end you will be happy. — The Giving Tree