People Liked Him

People liked him, not because
He was rich or known to fame;
He had never won applause
As a star in any game

His was not a brilliant style,
His was not a forceful way,
But he had a gentle smile
And a kindly word to say

Never arrogant or proud,
On he went with manner mild;
Never quarrelsome or loud,
Just as simple as a child

Honest, patient, brave and true:
Thus he lived from day to day,
Doing what he found to do
In a cheerful sort of way

Wasn't one to boast of gold
Or belittle it with sneers,
Didn't change from hot to cold,
Kept his friends throughout the years

Sort of man you like to meet
Any time or any place
There was always something sweet
And refreshing in his face

Sort of man you'd like to be:
Balanced well and truly square;
Patient in adversity,
Generous when his skies were fair

Never lied to friend or foe,
Never rash in word or deed,
Quick to come and slow to go
In a neighbor's time of need

Never rose to wealth or fame,
Simply lived, and simply died,
But the passing of his name
Left a sorrow, far and wide

Not for glory he'd attained,
Nor for what he had of pelf,
Were the friends that he had gained,
But for what he was himself