True and Patient

Discover a timeless poem exploring love’s foundation: truth, patience, and trustworthiness.

If ye would love and loved be, In mind keep well these things three....Be secret, true and patient!

Short Poems & Quotes | Poems | Short Love Poems | Finding Love Poems | True & Patient

Updated January 13, 2025, by Catherine Pulsifer

Love is a journey that requires more than just feelings; it takes effort and character. True and Patient is a timeless poem that highlights three key virtues for a successful and lasting relationship: being true, being secret (discreet), and being patient. These qualities form the foundation of trust, harmony, and love. The poem reminds us that without these, love can falter. As you read, reflect on how these values can bring strength and depth to your relationships. Let this poem inspire you to nurture love in its truest form.

True & Patient

Poet: William Dunbak

If ye would love and loved be,
In mind keep well these things three.
And sadly in thy breast imprint, -
Be secret, true and patient!

For he that patience can not leir,
He shall displeasance have perquier,
Though he had all this world's rent:
Be secret, true and patient!

For who that secret cannot be,
Him all good fellowship shall flee,
And credence none shall him be lent:
Be secret, true and patient!

And he that is of heart untrue,
From he be ken'd farewell! adieu!
Fie on him! fie! his fame is went:
Be secret, true and patient!

Thus he that wants ane of these three
Ane lover glad may never be,
But aye in some thing discontent:
Be secret, true and patient!

'Nought with thy tongue thyself discure
The thing is that thou hast of nature;
For if thou dost, thou shalt recen:
Be secret, true and patient!

Key Messages from this poem:

This poem is a guide to love, reminding us that to love and be loved, there are three important qualities we need to embrace: secrecy, truth, and patience.

Patience is about staying calm and grounded.
If you can’t handle the ups and downs of love, frustration will follow. Even with all the wealth in the world, impatience will leave you feeling empty.

Secrecy here means being trustworthy.
When someone confides in you, they need to know their secrets are safe. Without discretion, relationships can fall apart, and trust is lost.

Truth is the foundation of any relationship.
Being honest and genuine builds bonds, while dishonesty destroys trust and ruins reputations.

The poem reminds us that missing even one of these qualities can lead to disappointment in love. To love fully and deeply, we must practice all three. And finally, it warns us to be cautious with our words. Sharing too much or speaking carelessly can lead to regret. It’s a reminder to think before we speak and to protect what’s important. In the end, the poem encourages us to take these values to heart: be patient, be trustworthy, and be truthful. When we live by these principles, love can grow and thrive.

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be patient, be trustworthy, and be truthful. When we live by these principles, love can grow and thrive.

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