JUDGE GENTLY

Pray, don't find fault with the man that limps Or stumbles along the road. Unless you have worn the shoes he wears Or struggled beneath his load.   There may be tacks in his shoes that hurt Though hidden away from view. Or the burden he bears placed on your back Might cause you to stumble too.   Don't sneer at the man who's down today Unless you have felt the blow That caused his fall or felt the shame That only the fallen know.   You may be strong but still the blows That was his if dealt to you In the selfsame way, at the selfsame time Might cause you to stagger too.     Don't be too harsh with the man that sins Or pelt him with word or stone Unless you are sure - yea, doubly sure - That you have no sins of your own.   For you know, perhaps, If the tempter's voice should whisper as soft to you As it did to him when he went astray It might cause you to falter too.