A 12-Year-Old's Response to IF

If you could dream you’re all alone

   And still work with others as a friend.

If you can think you’re a great man of power

And still gave respect for the poor.

If you could meet the fanciest man in the world

   And still treat others like a king.

If you can hear the truth of a shocking story

And still trust the truth.

If you can witness wrong of others

   And still be committed to the right.

If you can live life helping others

   And never hurt them so.

If you can win the hardest match of the year

And still not speak a word about it.

If at times you lose a humiliating match

   And still call it a fun game.

If you can love all of the world

   And yet be strong enough to survive its challenges.

Then you will be an appreciated man.

   You will have hardships and fun.

You will feel lonely and defeated.

   And even more, you’ll be grateful for it all.

original poem by Michael Skinner                         

9/17/13