I’d rather see a sermon
Than hear one any day;
I’d rather one should walk with me
Than merely tell 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 into action
Is what everybody needs.
When I see a deed of kindness,
I am eager to be kind.
When a weaker brother stumbles
And a strong man stands 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.
