When my heart pumps for the last time,
And my ears hear the angelic chime.
When my soul slips towards heavenly bliss,
Please measure my success by this.

In pen I set forth the yard stick on my life today,
When it comes to an end, use this note to see if I followed the way.
As you count my achievements don't look for my income,
Instead, ask yourself what did I become.

Did I treat the rich and the poor the same,
With those I loved did I refuse to play a game.
If someone was standing did I offer my seat,
Or was it only the attractive I was eager to meet.

When faced with destructive pleasures that came,
In moderation did my self control tame.
When given the chance to boast did I remain meek,
And offer protection to the weak.

When I errored did I tell you I was wrong,
Did I realize not muscle but a Higher Power is what made me strong.
Did I cease to make my focus my growing fame,
And when I loved did I show it without shame.

Was the world a better place because I lived,
With my treasure did I unselfishly give.
Did another life have hope because I showed them a better way,
Did I calmly accept the good and bad come what may.

Did I place my family, friends and country above myself,
And realize that those who loved me was the source of my wealth.
Did I invest my time to make the world right,
And only when pushed to the end show my might.

When my soul has completed occupying this space,
Because of me, will those yet to come have a better world to face.