Poem: The Guy in the Glass
The other day I facilitated a workshop at the University of Texas Professional Development Center – the workshop is part of the leadership certification program. One of the areas we discussed is having personal vision. We discussed questions like, “What do you stand for?” and “What defines you?”
We also talked about attitude and the power of demeanor. We all seem to be in agreement that one’s internal landscape directly affects one’s outer demeanor. I challenged the group to come up with at least 3 ways they like to stay inspired and keep positive. One of the participants shared that he likes to read the following poem to keep himself inspired. Interestingly, it ties right into answering that question, “What defines you?” as well.
After looking it up, I thought it would be a good one to share. Enjoy!
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The Guy in the Glass
When you get what you want in your struggle for pelf*
And the world makes you king for a day,
Just go to a mirror and look at yourself,
And see what that man has to say.
For it isn’t your father or mother or wife,
Who judgment upon you must pass;
The fellow whose verdict counts most in your life
Is the one staring back from the glass.
He’s the fellow to please, never mind all the rest.
For he’s with you clear up to the end,
And you’ve passed the most dangerous, difficult test
If the man in the glass is your friend.
You may be like Jack Horner and “chisel” a plum,
And think you’re a wonderful guy,
But the man in the glass says you’re only a bum
If you can’t look him straight in the eye.
You may fool the whole world down the pathway of years.
And get pats on the back as you pass,
But your final reward will be the heartaches and tears
If you’ve cheated the man in the glass.
Dale Wimbrow, © 1934
*pelf means “money, especially when gained in a dishonest or dishonorable way.” (Source: Google)
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Angela Loëb helps people rediscover and use their gifts so they can bring who they are to what they do. To learn more, please visit: www.insyncresources.com
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