Dr. Benjamin E. Mays’s poem "Life Is Just a Minute" captures the urgency and beauty of existence in simple, powerful lines that have resonated for generations. Rooted in the belief that every moment carries profound meaning, the poem serves as both a guiding philosophy and a spiritual call to action.
Written by one of the most influential thinkers of the 20th century, "Life Is Just a Minute" transcends the boundaries of time and culture. Whether it's read by students at historically Black colleges and universities or shared in inspirational circles around the world, the poem continues to remind us that life is both fleeting and sacred. Read slowly ... savor each word and Enjoy!
Life is Just a Minute
I’ve only just a minute,
Only sixty seconds in it.
Forced upon me, can’t refuse it,
Didn’t seek it, didn’t choose it,
But it’s up to me to use it.
I must suffer if I lose it,
Give an account if I abuse it,
Just a tiny little minute,
But eternity is in it.
~ Dr. Benjamin E. Mays
Conclusion: Why "Life Is Just a Minute" Endures
As President of Morehouse College, Dr. Mays instilled these values in generations of students, reinforcing the belief that every minute holds the power to shape character and influence communities. Today, "Life Is Just a Minute" continues to resonate across classrooms, leadership circles, and HBCU culture, serving as both a moral compass and a call to meaningful action. Its enduring relevance affirms Dr. Mays’s legacy as a visionary whose words still guide lives—one minute at a time.
About Dr. Benjamin E. Mays
Dr. Benjamin E. Mays (1894–1984) was a distinguished educator, minister, and civil rights leader whose influence extended far beyond the academy. As President of Morehouse College from 1940 to 1967, Mays elevated the institution into one of the most respected historically Black colleges in America, emphasizing academic excellence, moral courage, and community leadership. His tenure helped shape generations of Black scholars and activists, including Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and solidified Morehouse’s legacy as a cradle of intellectual and ethical leadership.
About Morehouse College
Founded in 1867, Morehouse College is a nationally renowned, private historically Black liberal arts college for men located in Atlanta, Georgia. Known for its commitment to academic excellence, leadership development, and social responsibility, Morehouse has educated generations of influential leaders in business, education, religion, science, and public service. The college is consistently recognized among the top HBCUs in the United States for producing Rhodes Scholars, Fulbright Scholars, and graduates who impact communities worldwide.
During Dr. Benjamin E. Mays’s presidency from 1940 to 1967, Morehouse College experienced a transformative era marked by intellectual rigor, moral purpose, and global vision. Under his leadership, Morehouse strengthened its academic standards, expanded its faculty, and deepened its mission to develop men who would lead with integrity and courage. Today, Morehouse College continues to uphold Dr. Mays’s legacy by preparing students to address society’s most pressing challenges while embodying the values of service, excellence, and ethical leadership.
