The Difference between Politicians and Statesmen

The leaders of some countries can be thought of as a joke,

Whose claims that they are statesmen can be toppled at a stroke,

By asking awkward questions, so that they’re put on a spot

Forced to answer something when they’d really rather not.

They stumble  and they fluster, not quite knowing where to turn,

With no coherence in their speech a listener can discern;

They often get quite angry and say things that are not true

Wildly seeking something to support their point of view.

They lack the breadth of knowledge that would stand them in good stead

When dealing with opponents who are much more widely read.

They’re easily offended and have little self-control,

And lacking in a vision of a long-term wider goal.

A statesman on the other hand is quite a different thing,

Someone with a knowledge of the world and thus can bring

Calm and reasoned answers to the questions he is asked,

Maintaining the diplomacy with which he has been tasked.

Never getting angry, letting foolish comments fly,

For none really faze him, no matter how they try.

Little will offend him, for his ego isn’t large,

Though everyone is well aware he’s very much in charge.

He does his best to keep the peace, ensuring that his land,

Is always at the forefront when initiatives are planned.

He’s very well respected as an honest, upright man,

Who in every circumstance will do the best he can.