David Miliband

I was honoured to participate in Lord Jack Ashley’s memorial service earlier today. Jack was an extraordinary man who made a lasting and unique contribution to public life. He was a man who seized upon the causes that mattered to him and never let them go – whether it was the suffering of the deaf or the victims of thalidomide poisoning. Throughout his life he showed remarkable determination and passion for causes that mattered.

For the service I was asked to read a poem. I think it says a lot about Jack.

 

The Measure of a Man

Not, what did he gain, but what did he give?
These are the units to measure the worth
Of a man as a man, regardless of his birth.
Nor what was his church, nor what was his creed?
But had he befriended those really in need?
Was he ever ready, with words of good cheer,
To bring back a smile, to banish a tear?
Not what did the sketch in the newspaper say,
But how many were sorry when he passed away?