Opportunity by Harold R. Wing (published by permission from Enterprise Mentors International)

(Hal Wing is a community leader and entrepreneur who has provided opportunities to hundreds of people.  His poem reflects the work of Enterprise Mentors in providing a hand up rather than a hand out.)

I walked the path alone it seemed, not another soul in sight
I longed to share my fortune great, make another’s burden light.

Then there he was, just around the bend sitting with his hand held ou t.
I wondered why he labored not — he appeared so young and stout.

And then I thought, it mattered not; I had so much to share.
I reached into my pocket deep to show how much I cared.

My offering he gladly took, his pockets he did fill,
But as I wandered down the path, I sensed him wanting still.

I returned again to this beggar man and looked at him once more.
'Twas true, I had given of my wealth but alas, he still was poor.

 For ‘twas not riches that he lacked, but a feeling of self-worth;
something he could only gain  if he earned his way on earth.

 I wondered aloud, “What can I do to help this man distraught?”
As I searched my soul and pondered deep, to my mind came this fresh thought:

That which I give and he earns not makes self-esteem sink low.
He, myself, and all God’s sons need fields, their seeds to sow.

I called to him, “Come, follow me, I have something for you to see.
It may be strange and new to you, “it’s called opportunity.”

 He did not move and looked confused a frown formed on his brow.
Had he never dared to try before? Did he have the courage now?

Again I bade him, “Come follow me, there’s something you can do,
For every man was born to win. This rule applies to you.”

With cautious steps he moved ahead and sighed, “I hope I can...
Maybe someday, somehow, I can change this beggar into a man.

The way was hard and the hill was steep, his brow was covered with sweat.
His body ached and longed for rest, sometimes he paused and wept.

But deep inside he came to know, and at last to finally see
The only gift that would not degrade was opportunity.

He labored on and learned a trade and earned his daily bread.
At each day’s end, where he once felt shame, grew pride and joy instead.

I  too, felt joy and a sense of pride for the efforts he had shown,
Not for any labor I’d put forth, for the seeds by him were sown.

But I now had found the answer sought when someone is found in need:
To shower him with gifts and wealth is not the proper deed.

The way to truly help one grow and taste of victory,
Is to give him something he can use - Give him opportunity.