Before

Sometimes, it is good to take a step back and analyse things. Analyse your intentions, your actions and your words. I have made a short poem based on a very famous quote written by William Arthur Ward.

Below is the original quote:

''Before you speak, listen. Before you write, think. Before you spend, earn. Before you invest, investigate. Before criticize, wait. Before you pray, forgive. Before you quit, try. Before you retire, save. Before you die, give.'' - William Arthur Ward

Some very wise words from Mr Ward, wouldn't you agree? Below is my very own personalised version of the quote. I call this poem 'Before.'

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Before you speak, listen.

Listen to others carefully, ensure you have heard what they have to say.

Before you spend, earn.

Think about your expenses, for the next time you are eager to pay.

Before you quit, try.

Winners never quit and quitters never win.

If you try and you fail... Oh well, take it on the chin.

Before you invest, investigate.

Do not just plant your money anywhere, with anyone - know how and where it is laying.

Make sure you pay attention, before you start paying.

Before you criticize, wait.

Do not be quick to judge, seek to find out what others are conveying.

Look at all factors, and consider how they weigh in.

Before you pray, forgive.

Some may argue that this isn't always fair...

For indeed forgiveness is one of the hardest tasks a human can bare.

Before you gain, give.

What would be the point in gaining everything if you are unwilling to share?

Before you die, live.

We all have life. But to actually live... is rare.

- Emmanuel Nnaji

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With this poem, I simply wanted to fill in the gaps and add some context to the quote in a rhythmic kind of way. I feel doing this makes it more memorable.

With that being said, I have written this poem in memory of the late great writer, William Arthur Ward (1921 - March 30, 1994) - gone but not forgotten.

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Thank you for reading!

Stay safe. Stay blessed. Work hard. Don't stress.