PRIDE BEFORE THE FALL

Not many people can handle wealth and fame 
It goes to their heads, having a noticeable name 
Like the Tower of Babel, they stand grand and tall
Unaware that their pride comes just before their fall.

Their thrones of glass, so finely spun,  
Reflects the light of the prideful sun,  
But shadows linger, creeping low,  
For lofty heights bring bitter woe.  

Dressed in fine apparel, they dazzle the eyes 
Chauffeured in limousines one-of-a-kind
Housed in mansions built for kings
Looking down on the world, like the sun in its sting.

But behold the peacock strutting wide,  
Arrayed in splendor and full of pride,
Yet, in his flair and finesse, he fails to see,  
The weight of hubris sets him free.  

Oh, lofty heart, be wise and kind,  
Let not thy gaze be blind, confined;  
For the ladder of self that thou has climbed
Will tomorrow become the toxicity of your mind 

So tread with care on paths of gold,  
With a humble heart, let love unfold,  
For pride, though sweet, can turn to gall,  
Remember well: it’s pride before the fall.  

Wilford Barker.