The great were once as you. <br />They whom men magnify to-day <br />Once groped and blundered on life's way, <br />Were fearful of themselves, and thought <br />By magic was men's greatness wrought. <br />They feared to try what they could do; <br />Yet Fame hath crowned with her success <br />The selfsame gifts that you possess. <br />The great were young as you, <br />Dreaming the very dreams you hold, <br />Longing yet fearing to be bold, <br />Doubting that they themselves possessed <br />The strength and skill for every test, <br />Uncertain of the truths they knew, <br />Not sure that they could stand to fate <br />With all the courage of the great. <br />Then came a day when they <br />Their first bold venture made, <br />Scorning to cry for aid. <br />They dared to stand to fight alone, <br />Took up the gauntlet life had thrown, <br />Charged full-front to the fray, <br />Mastered their fear of self, and then, <br />Learned that our great men are but men. <br />Oh, youth, go forth and do! <br />You, too, to fame may rise; <br />You can be strong and wise. <br />Stand up to life and play the man— <br />You can if you'll but think you can; <br />The great were once as you. <br />You envy them their proud success? <br />'Twas won with gifts that you possess.<br /><br />Edgar Albert Guest<br /><br />http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/to-a-young-man-3/
