I've' felt some little thrills of pride, I've inwardly rejoiced <br />Along the pleasant lanes of life to hear my praises voiced; <br />No great distinction have I claimed, but in a humble way <br />Some satisfactions sweet have come to brighten many a day; <br />But of the joyous thrills of life the finest that could be <br />Was mine upon that day when first a stranger 'mistered' me. <br /> <br />I had my first long trousers on, and wore a derby too, <br />But I was still a little boy to everyone I knew. <br />I dressed in manly fashion, and I tried to act the part, <br />But I felt that I was awkward and lacked the manly art. <br />And then that kindly stranger spoke my name and set me free; <br />I was sure I'd come to manhood on the day he 'mistered' me. <br /> <br />I never shall forget the joy that suddenly was mine, <br />The sweetness of the thrill that seemed to dance along my spine, <br />The pride that swelled within me, as he shook my youthful hand <br />And treated me as big enough with grown up men to stand. <br />I felt my body straighten and a stiffening at each knee, <br />And was gloriously happy, just because he'd 'mistered' me. <br /> <br />I cannot now recall his name, I only wish I could. <br />I've often wondered if that day he really understood <br />How much it meant unto a boy, still wearing boyhood's tan, <br />To find that others noticed that he'd grown to be a man. <br />Now I try to treat as equal every growing boy I see <br />In memory of that kindly man—the first to 'mister' me.<br /><br />Edgar Albert Guest<br /><br />http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/manhood-s-greeting/
