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in: Character, Manly Lessons

• Last updated: June 3, 2021

Manvotional: Playing the Game

Vintage men playing rugby in snow ground.

Image from paoloboza

I ran across this poem by an anonymous author the other day. I think it sums up nicely how a man should approach life: play fair, don’t whine when things don’t go your way, and bust your butt in everything you do. Play the game of life well, and you’ll be a success.

Life is a game with a glorious prize,
If we can only play it right.
It is give and take, build and break,
And often it ends in a fight;
But he surely wins who honestly tries
(Regardless of wealth or fame),
He can never despair who plays it fair
How are you playing the game?

Do you wilt and whine, if you fail to win
In the manner you think your due?
Do you sneer at the man in case that he can
And does, do better than you?
Do you take your rebuffs with a knowing grin?
Do you laugh tho’ you pull up lame?
Does your faith hold true when the whole world’s blue?
How are you playing the game?

Get into the thick of it – wade in, boys!
Whatever your cherished goal;
Brace up your will till your pulses thrill,
And you dare to your very soul!
Do something more than make a noise;
Let your purpose leap into flame
As you plunge with a cry, “I shall do or die,”
Then you will be playing the game.

Do you have an idea for a Manvotional? I could use your help. Please email me any inspiring poems or essays that you think AoM readers would enjoy. I’ll of course attribute the Manvotional to you and you can bask in the glory of a well-deserved hat tip.

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