Abou Ben Adam revisited

When all is said and done, the important question is, how well have we loved our fellow man? Not how well were we loved, but how well have we loved. Surely we all know someone who is generous and kind, and asks little in return.

I suggest you read the short poem below, twice. First just to appreciate the message. The second time, substitute your friend (or relative’s) name wherever you see Abou Ben Adam’s. The poem becomes a fitting tribute to your friend.

And beyond this small opportunity to praise a special friend, it can be a reminder to emulate some of that grace and generosity and thoughtfulness that you admire in them. And while this may seem a small gesture, it counts. You will have honored your friend, and you will have made the world a little better place because you're here.

Abou Ben Adam
By Leigh Hunt
Abou Ben Adam (may his tribe increase!)

awoke one night from a deep dream of peace,

And saw, within the moonlight of his room,

Making it rich, and like a lily in bloom,

an angel, writing in a book of of gold.

Exceeding peace had made Ben Adam bold,

And to the Presence in the room he said:

"What writest thou?" The vision raised its head,

And, with a look made of all sweet accord,

Answered, "The names of those who love the Lord."

"And is mine one?" said Abou, "Nay, not so,"

Replied the angel. Abou spoke more low,

But cheerily still, and said, "I pray thee, then,

Write me as one who loves his fellow men."

The angel wrote, and vanished. The next night

It came again, with a great awakening light,

And showed the names whom love of God had blest,

And lo! Ben Adam's name led all the rest.