Seek not the things that others seek;
Say not the words that others speak;
Do not the works that others do;
Just do the ones that well suit you.

Live not the ways that others live;
Give not the things that others give;
Learn not the ways that others learn;
Earn not the ways that others earn.

Think not the ways that others think;
Ink not the way that others ink;
Sing not the way that others sing;
Do just things that contentment bring.

Take just the things in others good;
Eat just the needed healthy food;
Copy what is exemplary;
Just take what you can well carry!


(5-10-2000)

Dr John Celes

http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/prudence/