I wrote this poem for my niece, Hannah Pearson, and the graduating High School Senior Class of 2014 at Jackson Christian School, in Jackson, TN.
Matthew 7:12 (NIV) –
“So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and Prophets.”
In the early years in grammar school
We learned to write
The Golden Rule
“Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.”
On wide ruled tablets
With thick pencil lead
Writing and Listening to what The Teacher said
“Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.”
Our young hearts were open
Our little minds were set
Memorizing the rule so we would not forget
“Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.”
But was that just an exercise in futility
Reciting a verse that would not come to be?
Because as the years flew by and we made our way
Through Middle and High School and even up to today
If we were truly honest
Our hearts would tell
We’ve forgotten the verse
We once knew so well
We’ve forgotten our words
Wound just like a knife
That words move us to actions
Often causing strife
Words of hatred and anger
Words of slander and disgust
Are killing us softly
Returning us to dust
So let’s remember again
On this Graduation Day
What The Teacher has said as we go on our way
“Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.”
This one simple verse
Quoted in red
From the good book of Matthew our Savior Jesus said
“Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.”
If we’ve learned anything at all
From these past twelve years
Be it to “LIVE THE GOLDEN RULE”
Among foe, friend or peer
Then we will be successful
All of our days
As we humble our hearts
With Grateful Praise
To the One who offers the best
Of what the future holds
When we do what He said, just as He told
“Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.”