The Measure Of A Man Poem by Merl Guth

There are moments in my life when my thoughts have run quite deep,
and I've pondered many things that In my heart, I'll keep.
Those who know me, day to day, would likely be surprised,
at the poems and songs inside my head that I've kept well disguised.

An often pondered topic that I reflect on, when I can,
just what is considered in the measure of a man.
What is the standard to be used when we say a man is great,
and when that measure is applied to me, how is it that I rate?

I've seen some guys they call great men, on the evening news.
They look the part and are dressed to shine, right down to their shoes.
the petty newsmen worship them with words that are afire.
But there just seems no substance there and little to admire.

Then down the road a year or so, the truth will come to light.
The guy's a slug, morally blank, with no clue of wrong or right.
The modern world will judge a man only by his look,
the car he drives, the ball he plays, the width of his pocket book.

As long as you can look the best and keep your warts all greased,
to most, the measure of your character won't matter in the least.
but It's your soul and what is hid, the man upstairs will view,
you can't hide who you really are no matter what you do.

So I have made a list of things that, I think, should express,
some traits to use as weights upon the scale of man's success.
A humble man who's stripped of pride and willing to be taught,
a gentle soul, a loving heart and honor that can't be bought.

A man that supports his family, and won't leave his loved one's lone,
who puts his wife and children's needs before his very own.
A man should realizes he is third in the grand scheme of things,
that God comes first, his family next, and third is where he swings,

A man should see that honesty is one of man's greatest trials,
that being true to word and bond, will smooth the extra miles.
A man should not be quick to wrath, and patient to a great degree.
Who will always do what he knows is right, even if no one's there to see.

A man should know and practice well the art of apology.
that a humble heart is always found within a heartfelt I'm sorry.
A great man knows the joy that's felt when gratitude is shown.
and offering a fervent thanks shows maturity has grown.

When the chips are finally down and a one's mettle is understood.
The test is how he treats someone who can't do him any good.
With all these traits of which I've spoke, so many things to know;
I realize, when all is said and done, I've got a ways to go.


Merl Guth 11/12/2018