I'd rather see a sermon

Than hear one any day;

I'd rather one should walk with me

Than merely show the way.

The eye's a better pupil,

And more willing than the ear;

Fine counsel is confusing,

But example's always clear.

The best of all the preachers

Are the men who live their creeds,

For to see good put in action,

Is what everybody needs.

I can soon learn how you do it,

If you let me see it done;

I can watch your hands in action,

But your tongue too fast may run.

And the lectures you deliver

May be very wise and true;

But I'd rather get my lesson,

By observing what you do,

For I may misunderstand you,

And the high advice you give,

But there's no misunderstanding

How you act and how you live.