Manhood

Whatever change the future brings,
Honor and pluck will be required.
These to the end of earthly things
Will be respected and desired.

Let isms flourish as they may,
He will be numbered with the few
Who show a willingness to stay,
And fight his difficulties through.

There will be need and praise for skill
And skill by patience comes alone;
By all we judge as good and ill
Will man's accomplishments be known.

No law can lessen wisdom's price,
Or easier make the heights to climb,
Success will call for sacrifice
In toil and study, faith and time.

Oh, eager youth be not misled!
Long is the road to decent fame.
Whatever changes lie ahead
The cost of manhood stays the same.

By: Edgar Guest 1941