Most of my adult life I have
collected quotations, maxims, poems, snippets of thought, philosophy, or advice
from many sources. Some writings are instructional;
some amusing; some sad; some are deep and meaningful, requiring much thought,
while others are light with immediately obvious meanings or lessons.
Recently I came across one
I’d like to share with you. Question
yourself as you read this anonymously written poem: Do I act and live so that others do not
misunderstand my intentions or my character?
Do I walk my talk?
“I’d rather see a sermon than hear one any day; I’d
rather one should walk with me than merely show the way. The eye’s a better pupil and more willing
than the ear; fine counsel is confusing but example’s always clear. And the best of all the preachers are the men
who live their creeds, for to see good put in action is what everybody
needs. I soon can learn to do it if
you’ll let me see it done; I can see your hands in action, but your tongue too
fast may run. And the lectures you
deliver may be very fine and true, but I’d rather get my lesson by observing
what you do. For I may not understand
you and the high advice you give, but there’s no misunderstanding how you act
and live.”