Myself (Edgar Guest)

Myself
by Edgar Guest

I have to live with myself, and so,
I want to be fit for myself to know;
I want to be able as days go by,
Always to look myself straight in the eye;
I don't want to stand with the setting sun
And hate myself for the things I've done.
 

 

I want to go out with my head erect

I want to deserve all men's respect;

I don't want to hide on a closet shelf
A lot of secrets about myself,
And fool myself as I come and go
Being bluster, bluff and empty show 

I never can hide myself from me,

I see what others may never see,

What kind of man I really am;
I don't want to dress myself in sham.

I know what others may never know,
I never can fool myself -- and so,
Whatever happens, I want to be
Self-respecting and conscience free.