Limelight Poem by Pleasant Dabbs

How do you feel when someone mentions your name
Does it open your ears and does it light up a flame?
When a group of your friends get together and mumble
And they refer to your name, does that make you feel humble?

Most of us would rather bask in the sunlight
Than lay in the shade, where things aren't so bright
In the sun we score high, in the shade we score zero
We'll just sit there and dwindle, because we're not the hero

We love recognition and envision our stardom
And we'll get there I promise...when the preparation's all done
We took our first step on the way to the summit
And grabbed the checked flag and then quickly did plummet

When we got to the top we had no assistance (assistants- they were all down below)
We slipped on the gravel and then fell a great distance
We can all win acclaim, enjoy glory and honor
When we gain it ourselves it shines quickly then wanders

Let your friends share the limelight, watch their confidence increase
Then you take a back seat...and all the ‘hoopla' will cease
Take joy in the quests, and achievements of others
Laud not your distinction but give credit to your brothers

They're just one step down, they're good men but not high rise
They only need nudging to bring their lows up to highs
Not much success in their lives since the very beginning
Won't you please build them up and make this their big inning

Cause once they have scaled the tower mighty and exalted
They'll have more self-assurance, when all the hurdles they've vaulted
You don't need to worry about your greatness waning
You will always be up there, but your numbers will be gaining

This life is the test grounds for all of God's children
The gifted are few, but the total is millions
The fact He's our Father should make all feel important
We are of His blood line, we all sleep in the same tent

The next time you're announced as a great man with talent
Be a mouthpiece for all...so many others are gallant
Please give them some credit, and attest to their goodness
With that sole distinction you assure their success

c aaron