The Pen

The pen is said mightier than the sword,
But the winners of wars write history
Between those who do and those who record
By far, would I rather a doer be

The good swordsman is one who will not yield;
To attack is safer than to defend.
Nor can the pen be well used as a shield;
Quickness of wit or wrist wins in the end.

So wield your pen just as a fencer might,
Using skillful words to parry and thrust,
And so endeavor to fight the good fight,
With the tools of truth, for a cause that's just.

For once you learn to use a pen with skill
You never need to draw a sword to kill.

--Sean Hastings 1994