by K. E. D.
To count yourself steadfast on
quaking feet with trembling hands
and fearful heart.

To know the road you walk, though
rough and dark, and hazard-filled,
to be the right road.

To hold within yourself that faith
in something all unseen, unknown,
on simple faith alone.
To be, with all your heart and
mind and soul, the very best that you
can be, though scorned.
No more, no less for fear and pain,
or spite's disdain.
This is the measure of a man.