Myself

The idea of a mirror of life may seem unusual, yet it is something everyone can understand. It reminds us that, at the end of each day, we know in our own hearts whether we have lived according to our values. What does this really mean?

There are quiet moments when we reflect on our choices, our words, and the way we have treated others. During those times, it is difficult to hide the truth from ourselves. Edgar A. Guest expresses this beautifully when he writes, "Always to look myself straight in the eye; I don't want to stand with the setting sun And hate myself for the things I've done." His words remind us to live each day with honesty so that we can face ourselves with a clear conscience. Rather than pretending to be someone we are not, we are encouraged to be genuine in both our actions and our character.

The poem also reminds us that integrity is not something we show only when others are watching. It begins with the choices we make each day, even when no one else knows. As Christians, we are reminded that God knows our hearts and sees both our actions and our intentions. Living with honesty, kindness, and faith allows us to move through life with peace, knowing we have done our best to honor Him and treat others well.

This timeless poem is one of Edgar A. Guest's most memorable Famous Poems, encouraging us to live with honesty, integrity, and a clear conscience.

Updated July 18, 2026, by Catherine Pulsifer.

Myself

Poet: Edgar A. Guest

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 straight in the eye;
I don't want to stand with the setting sun
And hate myself for the things I've done.

I don't want to keep on a closet shelf
A lot of secrets about myself,
And fool myself as I come and go
Into thinking that nobody else will know
The kind of man I really am;
I don't want to dress myself up in sham.

I want to go out with my head erect,
I want to deserve all men's respect;
But here in this struggle for fame and pelf,
I want to be able to like myself.
I don't want to think as I come and go
That I'm for bluster and bluff and 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.

Key Reflections

Character Begins Within: Our true character is revealed by how we live when no one else is watching.
A Clear Conscience Brings Peace: Living honestly allows us to face each day, and ourselves, without regret.
Integrity Matters More Than Appearances: Success, recognition, or wealth have little value if they come at the cost of our principles.
Self Respect Is Earned: We gain lasting confidence by making choices we can be proud of, even when they are difficult.
Be the Same Person Everywhere: Edgar Guest reminds us there should be no difference between who we appear to be and who we truly are.

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Conclusion

Edgar A. Guest's poem reminds us that we cannot hide the truth of who we are from ourselves. Recognition and success may impress others, but lasting peace comes from living honestly and making choices that leave your conscience clear. When we act with integrity, we can face our reflection with confidence and know that our life reflects the person we truly want to be.

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