Not- How did he die? But- How
did he live?
Not- What did he gain? But- what
did he give?
These are the things that
measure the worth
Of a man as a man, regardless of
birth.
Not- What was his situation? But-
had he a heart?
And- How did he play his God-
given part?
Was he ever ready with a word of
good cheer?
To bring back a smile, to banish a
tear?
Not- What was his church? Not-
What was his creed?
But- Had he befriended those
really in need?
Not-What did the sketch in the
newspaper say?
But- How many were sorry when
he passed away?
These are the things that measure
the worth
Of a man as a man, regardless of
birth.
(Author Unknown)
Note: I've come across this several times over the years, but never gave it much thought until recently when I saw it again. While trying to find the author and recall where I've seen it, several different versions came up. If anyone has any knowledge or feedback on this, I would greatly appreciate it.
Tammy Wynette is a mother of three and a “G-MA” (grandma). Born in Warren, Arkansas, she currently resides in Sacramento, CA and is pursuing an AA degree in English at American River College, with plans to transfer to California State University, Sacramento (Sac State). She is an active leader and role model in her community, she works with teens sharing and teaching poetry, as well as providing insight for young parents to prosper.
She has certificate from NAMI (The National Alliance on Mental Illness) and is a trailblazer & Griot, keeper of stories/traditions passed down from her ancestors. As an Author and motivational speaker it’d be an honor to present at your events to inspire, encourage & let our VOICES be heard!
She has short stories and poems published in Our Black Mothers Brave, Bold and Beautiful!
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It’s frustrating that I can’t recall where or when I first came across this year’s ago and yet when seeing it again recently, I was overwhelmed with those same emotions bt have more clarity now.
Never have I encountered a post, by whom the writer shared so many things that I too wish to share. This reminds me of my dad. I am hosting a Celebration of Life to honor him on the 3rd. I am going to read this aloud, for I believe everyone will agree it is like him, and perhaps hearing words as these will plant a seed into the minds of the young men there to never forget to strive to be of these admirable qualities. Thank you so much.
Wow, I’m so glad you get it. People have asked why (being a woman) would I share this. Since when did become so literal, lol.
I think that’s awesome to share this in honor of your father, now I truly happy I shared & wish I could see the faces of all his loved ones when you read it. Blessings to you my friend!
I am surprised people have wondered why you’d share such a thing. There are so many things to appreciate about both men and women, the mothers, the fathers, the brothers and sisters. I wish you could see them too, many will be wet. I am going to transfer that posting to paper, and will give our blogging friend credit for our having, to relate it to Dad. It will add to my part of speaking, but I dont think that will matter much.
My experience as well. Although I’ve read this many times before, now being a bit wiser, it surely caused me to look at myself. I definitely know what you mean.
It’s a fantastic blueprint for measuring humans. I love it. I’ve never seen this in its entirety but believe I’d seen pieces of it.
Whoever wrote this was onto something big. It’s a name that needs the recognition. Thanks so much for sharing it. 🙏 you rock!
I believe that was the case for me as well, only seeing snippets of it here & there. I researched for a week & even reached out to others, I really want to know who the author is.
5thGenerationgirl 
I don’t know anything about it but it says a lot.
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🥰
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Such a beautiful, wonderful, truly awesome poem! Every line is beautiful. Love it so much. ♥️♥️♥️♥️
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💕
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👍
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I love this. It has reminded me of Randy Travis’ song that says the following:
“Its not what you take when you leave this world behind you;
Its what you leave behind you when you go.”
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Oh, I’d forgotten about Mr. Travis,lol. I think I know that song.😃
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Reminds me a bit of the prayer of St. Francis.
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It’s frustrating that I can’t recall where or when I first came across this year’s ago and yet when seeing it again recently, I was overwhelmed with those same emotions bt have more clarity now.
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👍
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Never have I encountered a post, by whom the writer shared so many things that I too wish to share. This reminds me of my dad. I am hosting a Celebration of Life to honor him on the 3rd. I am going to read this aloud, for I believe everyone will agree it is like him, and perhaps hearing words as these will plant a seed into the minds of the young men there to never forget to strive to be of these admirable qualities. Thank you so much.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Wow, I’m so glad you get it. People have asked why (being a woman) would I share this. Since when did become so literal, lol.
I think that’s awesome to share this in honor of your father, now I truly happy I shared & wish I could see the faces of all his loved ones when you read it. Blessings to you my friend!
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I am surprised people have wondered why you’d share such a thing. There are so many things to appreciate about both men and women, the mothers, the fathers, the brothers and sisters. I wish you could see them too, many will be wet. I am going to transfer that posting to paper, and will give our blogging friend credit for our having, to relate it to Dad. It will add to my part of speaking, but I dont think that will matter much.
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I’ll be sure to say a prayer❣
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Good one 👍.
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Thank you
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I don’t know who the author is either but a beautifully pointed and poignant passage it is!
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💖
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A reality! I love it!
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💞
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It’s definitely thought-provoking and makes me look at myself in the mirror.
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My experience as well. Although I’ve read this many times before, now being a bit wiser, it surely caused me to look at myself. I definitely know what you mean.
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Excellent!! I had not read this before, so, thank you!!
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You are most welcome my friend.
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It’s a fantastic blueprint for measuring humans. I love it. I’ve never seen this in its entirety but believe I’d seen pieces of it.
Whoever wrote this was onto something big. It’s a name that needs the recognition. Thanks so much for sharing it. 🙏 you rock!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I believe that was the case for me as well, only seeing snippets of it here & there. I researched for a week & even reached out to others, I really want to know who the author is.
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