MYSELF
I have to live with myself, and so
I want to be fit for myself to know
I want to be able as days go by
Always to look myself in the eye.
I don’t want to stand with the setting sun;
And hate myself for the things I have done.
I want to go out with my head erect,
I want to deserve all men’s respect.
For here in the struggle for fame and self
I want to be able to like myself.
I don’t want to look at myself and know
I’m a bluster, a bluff, and an empty show
I never can hide myself from ME;
I see what others may never see.
I know what others may never know.
I never can fool myself, and so,
Whatever happens, I want to be
Self-respecting and conscience-free