"Measure A Man"

In what manner stained,
As life is filled and drained,
On broken backs, your plan!
Is the measure of a man?
In lofty words, resound?
Of prophet yet earth bound?
In fame for deeds acclaimed?
Or in actions, those un-named?
In attempts to reach the stars?
Or of those who wear the scars?
In acquisition of untold wealth?
Or in great strength, ego, health?
In the scholar, smart or wise?
Or the innocence, void of lies?
In rule o'er country or land?
In the humble out-stretched hand?
In righteous deeds untold?
In dictator's dungeons, cold?
In religions search 'o' light?
In mind's darken forest, night?
In blue blood, noble born?
Or in oppression's scorn?
How do you measure your soul?
When you stand to pay the toll?