Classic Poem

Would you have your name to echo,
Generations through?
I would make it worth repeating
If I were you.

Do you wish to win disciples?
Reason and then no,
I would follow my own preaching
If I were you.

Do you blow a public trumpet?
Let its tone be true.
I would never pitch it falsely
If I were you.

Would you fill a post of honor?
Earn it ere you sue.
I would merit ere I begged it.
If I were you.

Are you set to serve your country?
To your trust be true.
I'd not steal my master's silver
If I were you.

Are you fickle—prone to changing
Old friends for the new?
I would keep the old and tried ones
If I were you.

Have you won a loving woman?
To your love be true.
I'd not win a heart to break it
If I were you.

Would you leave a written record
Clear as heaven's blue?
I would keep each page unspotted
If I were you.

Do you preach a day when judgement
Gives each man his due?
I would be what I pretended
If I were you.