Besmirch not, nor bring cause
to arrest the simple-hearted fool
who wrestles without applause
for things not yet thought through

For in that abject passion breeds
a life that in some-far off day
may draw them honor past oceans
and the hope of those who pray

Were not the wisest once but plebes;
The richest themselves poor alone?
Why then act on our own as thieves
and rob them of what life can show?

Let fall the fates and raise the bar
Heroes are made and duty borne
As we relate the sum of who we are
recall the weight of the pain we bore

One day as the gentle earth
turns to meet tomorrow's sky
this anvil and flame shall give birth
to a leader ready for you and I

So mentor well your single charge
while you balance your heart within
Let memory and charity then enlarge
the gift your patience has helped win

a/n: This poem was first entered in the April 2019 Poets' Pub Competition

Dedicated to undoubtedlymine who likes this poem. 🙂 I hope you like this book as well.