Myself


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:

For here in the struggle for fame and self

I want to be able to like myself.

I don't want to look at myself and know

That I'm bluster and bluff, an empty show.

I never can hide myself from me

I see what others may never see

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.

                                                                                                     Sister Stanislaus 

                                                                                                   Charity Hospital, New Orleans, LA.

                                                                                                 Died June 8, 1949