See A Sermon

I’d rather see a sermon,
Than hear one any day;
I’d rather one should walk with me
Than merely show the way.
The eye’s a better pupil
And more willing than the ear;
Fine counsel is confusing
But example’s always clear.
And the best of all the preachers
Are the ones who live their creed,
For to see good put in action
Is what everybody needs.
I soon can learn to do it,
If you let me see it done.
I can watch your hands in action,
But your tongue too fast may run.
And the sermon you deliver
May be very wise and true,
But I’d rather get my lesson
By observing what you do,
For I might misunderstand you
And the high advice you give;
But there’s no misunderstanding
How you act and how you live.

Author Unknown