With sixty seconds' worth of distance run, If all men count with you, but none too much If neither foes nor loving friends can hurt you, Or walk with Kings-nor lose the common touch, If you can talk with crowds and keep your virtue, To serve your turn long after they are gone,Īnd so hold on when there is nothing in youĮxcept the Will which says to them: 'Hold on!' If you can force your heart and nerve and sinew If you can make one heap of all your winningsĪnd risk it on one turn of pitch-and-toss,Īnd lose, and start again at your beginningsĪnd never breathe a word about your loss Or watch the things you gave your life to, broken,Īnd stoop and build 'em up with worn-out tools: Twisted by knaves to make a trap for fools, If you can bear to hear the truth you've spoken If you can meet with Triumph and DisasterĪnd treat those two impostors just the same If you can think - and not make thoughts your aim If you can dream - and not make dreams your master If you can wait and not be tired by waiting,Īnd yet don't look too good, nor talk too wise: If you can trust yourself when all men doubt you,īut make allowance for their doubting too

If you can keep your head when all about you But rather to mean that you should be prepared to take risks in your life. My only reservation about the poem is the section that starts with 'If you can make one heap.' Please do not take it to mean that you have to gamble with your life. The life story of my hero, Moses (Moshe Rabenu), is the epitome of personality described in this poem. There are many comments on the Internet about the influence of the Bible on Kipling's philosophy. In later years, reading the stories of the Bible, I could see many parallels between the poem and some Biblical teachings and stories. When you are going through trying times, read this poem. I would like to re-direct this to all students. Ever since, it has been a source of guidance and encouragement. Leslie and Lois Partridge in Janesville, WI). I had received this poem in a greeting card for my high-school graduation from my AFS family (Mr.

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