I'd Rather See A Sermon

"I'd rather see a sermon than hear one any day."
    "I'd rather one would walk with me than merely show the way."
    "The eye's a better pupil and more willing than the ear,
    Fine counsel is confusing, BUT EXAMPLE'S ALWAYS CLEAR."
    And the best of all the preachers, Are the men who live their creeds,
    For to see good put in actions, Is what everybody needs.

    I soon can learn to do it, If You’ll let me see it done;
    I can watch your hands in action, But your tongue too fast may run
    And the lectures you deliver, May be very wise and true
    But I’d rather get my lessons, By observing what you do;
    For I might misunderstand you, Ant the high advice you give
    But there’s no misunderstanding, How you act and how you live

    When I see a deed of kindness, I am eager to be kind
    When a weaker brother stumble, And a stronger man stays behind
    Just to see if he can help him, Then the wish grows strong in me
    To become as big and thoughtful, As I know that friend to be.
    And all travelers can witness, That the best of guides today
    Is not the one who tells them, But the one who shows the way.

    One good man teaches many, Men believe what they behold:
    One deed of kindness noticed, Is worth forty that are told.
    Who stands with men of honour, Learns to hold his honour dear,
    For right living speaks a language, Which to every one is clear.
    Though an able speaker charms me, With his eloquence I say,
    I’d rather see a sermon, than to hear one, any day.
                                Edgar A. Guest