The Two Sides of Pride

 

 

Church tells us all “pride is a sin”,

And so it is, when from within,

We think more than perhaps we ought

 

 

He paused. He looked bewildered

Outside the pawn shop door –

His shabby jacket threadbare –

His boots all cracked, and poor.

 

At outstretched palm he stared, at

The pitifully few

Small coins he’d just accepted.

Small choice, other than do

What circumstance dictated.

Kids’ empty bellies called,

And rent man due tomorrow,

Would no longer be stalled.

 

Once pride had been his byword

When he was in a job –

And now, his pride surrendered,

He looked at his few bob.

 

Then, turning round, his gaze fell

And with his heart stone-cold,

He saw, in the shop window

His wedding band of gold.

 

No longer than five minutes

Was seen his shaking frame,

Then, resolute, he stiffened,

Turned round, to hide his shame.

 

He paused, all but defeated,

This man, bereft, alone -

His voice, low, gruffly uttered

 

 

Gathering up what strength he might

Mouthed the words “By God, this night

My kids will be fed, not denied:

I can still have a little pride.”