Myself by Edgar Guest

Myself

By Edgar Guest

I have to live with myself and so

I want to be fit for myself to know.

I want to be able as days go by,

always to look myself straight in the eye;

I don’t want to stand with the setting sun

and hate myself for the things I have done.

I don’t want to keep on a closet shelf

a lot of secrets about myself

and fool myself as I come and go

into thinking no one else will ever know

the kind of person I really am,

I don’t want to dress up myself in sham.

I want to go out with my head erect

I want to deserve all men’s respect;

but here in the struggle for fame and wealth

I want to be able to like myself.

I don’t want to look at myself and know

I am bluster and bluff and empty show.

I never can hide myself from me;

I see what others may never see;

I know what others may never know,

I never can fool myself and so,

whatever happens I want to be

self respecting and conscience free.

My mother taught me the poem above when I was a young child and didn't really understand its meaning. As time progressed, this poem has motivated me to live with the best character possible. Often we fall short of making the best choices in life. However, this verse is a good one to keep by to help you remain accountable. This poem is not the joyful type, for it points out your wrongs line for line. However, the joy comes from the fact that we serve a forgiving God that forgives us of our wretchedness and understands that we are a work in progress. As you go out this week, give your best to be your best and pray for your missteps along the way.