I'd Rather See A Sermon

This poem by Edgar A. Guest, I'd Rather See A Sermon, is one that expresses actions speak louder than words. There is no better way to live than to let your actions be an example to others.

We all know what it feels like to have someone give us a lecture, a talk, or a sermon about how and what we should be doing, yet when you look at their life you see no reflection of their advice to you. We are always inspired by the actions of people not by the talk of people. Let this poem remind you of this!

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I'd Rather See A Sermon
Poet: Edgar A. Guest

I'd rather see a sermon than hear one any day;
I'd rather one should walk with me than merely tell the way.
The eye's a better pupil and more willing than the ear,
Fine counsel is confusing, but example's always clear;
And the best of all the preachers are the men who live their creeds,
For to see good put in action is what everybody needs.

I soon can learn to do it if you'll let me see it done;
I can watch your hands in action, but your tongue too fast may run.
And the lecture you deliver may be very wise and true,
But I'd rather get my lessons by observing what you do;
For I might misunderstand you and the high advise you give,
But there's no misunderstanding how you act and how you live.

When I see a deed of kindness, I am eager to be kind.
When a weaker brother stumbles and a strong man stays behind
Just to see if he can help him, then the wish grows strong in me
To become as big and thoughtful as I know that friend to be.
And all travelers can witness that the best of guides today
Is not the one who tells them, but the one who shows the way.

One good man teaches many, men believe what they behold;
One deed of kindness noticed is worth forty that are told.
Who stands with men of honor learns to hold his honor dear,
For right living speaks a language which to every one is clear.
Though an able speaker charms me with his eloquence, I say,
I'd rather see a sermon than to hear one, any day.
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Quotes from the poem, I'd Rather See A Sermon:
"The eye's a better pupil and more willing than the ear"
Edgar A. Guest
People can talk all they want, but it is what we see people do that makes more of an impact.  What you see influences you more than what you hear.  As the saying goes, "actions speak louder than words".

"But I'd rather get my lessons by observing what you do"
Edgar A. Guest
People always learn more from observing than by just being told what to do. When you see something being done you can understand better than just hearing what to do.  

When I see a deed of kindness, I am eager to be kind.
Edgar A. Guest
People are influenced and inspired by others. One act of kindness can be passed on and influenced by many more.

I'd rather see a sermon than to hear one, any day.
Edgar A. Guest
Seeing is believing and most people would rather see a sermon by the way you live and what you do, than to hear you talk about what you believe and will do.


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