A Will To Mankind

My friend — with my last will I am dying,
I feel the final minutes strike on me.
But one thing still remains — the dream of mine,
And you will make that dream to be.

My friend, you see — the great times are coming
To make a choice and go your way.
Ride with intention like the lightning,
And let the dark not shape your day.

Keep high your head when all lose theirs,
And trust your heart when you are blamed.
Wait for the dawn, not tired of waiting,
Think — but do not make thought your aim.

And being hated, show no hatred;
Or being lied to, speak no lies.
Be brave when truth of yours is twisted
By knaves in foolish people’s eyes.

When you will see your way is broken,
Stand and build it with your hand.
When dreams are gone and words are spoken,
Your solitude is more than none.

And so hold on when nothing’s in you
Except the Will that commands: Hold on!
No loving friend nor hostile foe
Can truly hurt you for too long.

Talk with the crowd — yet keep your virtue.
Walk with the kings — yet keep your pride.
Look straight into the eyes of future
And never let your dreams to hide.

Be honest and strict with every minute,
Filled with the value of its run.
Yours is the Earth and all within it —
And which is more: you'll be a Man.

Примечание
Текст написан в 1994–1995 годах для метал-проекта Unshaded.
Представляет собой свободную адаптацию стихотворения «If—» Редьярда Киплинга, переработанную под ритмическую структуру песни.
Публикуется как архивный материал; английский текст слегка отредактирован для языковой целостности при сохранении идеи оригинала и авторской структуры.