Just Enough Souvenirs.
I have made (more than) my share of mistakes,
bad choices, errors and messes.
It is a bit staggering when I think of it
and more staggering still
when someone calls me a good man.
I have improved I think.
I rarely make the same mistake twice.
Not me. I am a man of imagination,
always discovering new ways to be wrong,
leaving me with a cluttered life
with so, so much to throw away,
Keeping just enough souvenirs
to be certain I never
believe my own press.
About this poem
Someone called me “a good man” today. That phrase always makes me a little uncomfortable. I am just a guy, figuring it out as I go, fully aware of my capability to get it wrong, a living battle between history and grace.
Tom
Quarry House 
Tom,
My Dad always told me if I made 70% of my decisions right I was doing fine. He told me not be afraid to cry and not be afraid to admit it when I make mistakes and not to be afraid to say that I am sorry.
I think my kids especially liked it. And Tom, I think you are one of the finest people that I have met in life!
We both battle with depression and I want to thank you for sharing that with all the people that you help on a daily basis! May God bless all that you do! Jim
Tom,
My definition of a “good guy” – “…a guy, figuring it out as I go, fully aware of my capability to get it wrong, a living battle between history and grace.”
Well said and I love the photo!
SteveB
Thank you! That battle, it is aways ongoing!