The guy in the glass poem

The guy in the glass is a remarkable and powerful piece of writing. The Guy In The Glass poem was in fact written in 1934 by American writer Peter ‘Dale’ Wimbrow (1895-1954). It was first published in The American Magazine in May that year. Wimbrow submitted the poem in response to the magazine’s request for its readers to send answers to an 18 year-old man’s question as to , “…why an ambitious young man should be honest…”.

We cannot be honest with others until we are first honest with ourselves. When we deceive ourselves, we often burden and damage our romantic relationships. Being honest requires deliberate effort on a daily basis and tolerating some painful realizations. Yet, by observing our emotions, thoughts, and behaviors, we can learn about who we really are and give ourselves the opportunity to change.

Guy in the glass

When you get what you want in your struggles for self

And the world makes you king for a day,

Just go to a mirror and look at yourself

And see what that guy has to say.

For it isn’t your father or mother or wife

Whose judgment upon you must pass,

The fellow whose verdict counts most in your life

Is the one staring back from the glass.

Some people might think you’re a straight-shooting chum

And call you a wonderful guy.

But the guy in the glass says you’re only a bum

If you can’t look him straight in the eye.

He’s the fellow to please, never mind all the rest

For he’s with you clear to the end

And you’ve passed your most dangerous test

If the guy in the glass is your friend.

You may fool the whole world down the pathway of years

And get pats on the back as you pass

But your final reward will be heartache and tears

If you’ve cheated the guy in the glass.

The road to authenticity

No one is fully authentic all of the time in their outer presentation. Sometimes we need to put on an act to get by. But some people spend more time living in-authentically than others. It is unpleasant and damaging to us if we are trapped in jobs or relationships where we rarely get the chance to be ourselves. If we are trapped, we need to change the situation when we can so that we can be free to express ourselves authentically. More damaging, however, is when we don’t know ourselves and it is our inner authenticity which is compromised. The truth will set you free. Free from addiction, depression and many other of life’s emotional ailments. Effort and faith are required to do so.

For more information on or drug addiction treatment, or about your own guy in the glass, contact Pathways Plett Rehab on 044 533 0330, or info@pathwaysplettrehab.co.za