You are the fellow that has to decide <br />Whether you'll do it or toss it aside. <br />You are the fellow who makes up your mind <br />Whether you'll lead or will linger behind <br />Whether you'll try for the goal that's afar <br />Or just be contented to stay where you are. <br />Take it or leave it. Here's something to do! <br />Just think it over — It's all up to you! <br /> <br />What do you wish? To be known as a shirk, <br />Known as a good man who's willing to work, <br />Scorned for a loafer or praised by your chief, <br />Rich man or poor man or beggar or thief? <br />Eager or earnest or dull through the day, <br />Honest or crooked? It's you who must say! <br />You must decide in the face of the test <br />Whether you'll shirk it or give it your best. <br /> <br />Nobody here will compel you to rise; <br />No one will force you to open your eyes; <br />No one will answer for you yes or no, <br />Whether to stay there or whether to go. <br />Life is a game, but it's you who must say, <br />Whether as cheat or as sportsman you'll play. <br />Fate may betray you, but you settle first <br />Whether to live to your best or your worst. <br /> <br />So, whatever it is you are wanting to be, <br />Remember, to fashion the choice you are free. <br />Kindly or selfish, or gentle or strong, <br />Keeping the right way or taking the wrong, <br />Careless of honor or guarding your pride, <br />All these are questions which you must decide. <br />Yours the selection, whichever you do; <br />The thing men call character's all up to you!<br /><br />Edgar Albert Guest<br /><br />http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/you-1329/
