The Measure of a Man

Not how did he die, but how did he live.
Not what did he gain, but what did he give.
Not what was his station, but had he a heart.
And how did he play his God-given part.
Not what was his shrine, nor what was his creed,
But had he befriended those really in need.
Not what did the piece in the newspaper say,
But how many were sorry when he passed away.
Was he ever ready with a word or good cheer,
To bring back a smile or banish a tear.
These are the units to measure the worth,
Of a man as a man regardless of birth.