The Test of a Man

The test of a man is how much he will bear
for a cause which he knows to be right.
How long will he stand in the depths of despair?
How much will he suffer and fight?
There are many to serve when the victory is near
and few are the hurts to be borne.
But it calls for a leader of courage to cheer
the men in a battle forlorn.
It is the way you hold out against odds that are great
that proves what your courage is worth.
It is the way you stand to the bruises of fate
that shows up your stature and girth.
And victory is nothing but proof of your skill,
veneered with a glory that's thin.
Unless it is a proof of unfaltering will
and unless you have suffered to win.