Title: The Man in the Glass: A Timeless Lesson on Self-Accountability and Integrity
Introduction:
For as long as I can remember, my dad had a poem on his dresser that has stayed with me throughout my life. "The Man in the Glass" is a powerful piece that reminds us of the importance of self-accountability and integrity. During my travels, I stumbled upon three cards containing this poem, and I'm pretty sure my dad sent them to his three sons. As we journey through life, taking care of those in our path and doing what we need to get by, it's essential to remember not to cheat the man in the glass.
The Man in the Glass:
When you get what you want in your struggle for self and the world makes you king for a day Just go to the 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 the most in your life is the one staring back from the glass
Some people may think you a straight-shooting chum and call you a wonderful guy But the guy in the glass says you're only a bum if you can't look him straight in the eye
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 your most dangerous difficult test if the man in the glass is your friend
You may fool the whole world down the pathway of life and get pats on the back as pass But your final reward will be heartaches and tears if you've cheated the man in the glass.
A Lesson in Self-Accountability:
The poem conveys a profound message about the importance of looking inwards and staying true to oneself. It teaches us that, despite external validation and praise from others, the only person whose opinion truly matters is our own. This introspective perspective is a vital component of personal growth and self-improvement.
As we face various challenges in life, it's easy to lose sight of who we are and what we stand for. We might be tempted to compromise our principles or take shortcuts to achieve our goals. However, the poem reminds us that doing so will only lead to heartache and disappointment in the long run.
Living with Integrity:
The man in the glass represents our conscience and inner voice, guiding us to make the right decisions and maintain our integrity. By staying true to ourselves, we can navigate life's ups and downs with a clear conscience and a sense of accomplishment.
It's essential to surround ourselves with positive influences and role models who share our values and beliefs. By doing so, we can remain grounded and focused on the right path, even when faced with difficult choices or challenging situations.
In Conclusion:
"The Man in the Glass" is a timeless reminder of the importance of self-accountability and integrity in our lives. As we continue to grow and learn, it's crucial to remember that the only person we need to please is the one staring back at us from the mirror. Embrace the wisdom of this poem, and you'll find the strength and courage to face life's challenges with grace and resilience.
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