The true measure of a man

“The true measure of a man (or woman) is how he treats someone who can do him absolutely no good.” — Martin Luther King Junior. 

It is no secret that I have a high regard for Gov. Mark Gordon. From the time he was state treasurer to now, in his last term as governor. Over the last decade plus years he has shown repeatedly in public and in private he has an amazing heart and soul. 

We don’t always agree on issues. Yet he has always disagreed civilly. Maybe I’m getting a little sentimental because his term as governor ends in seven months or 210 days from today (June 8, 2026) but who’s counting? (Jennie Gordon and myself, for sure.) 

On Saturday, the governor was in Worland. He called most people by name and knew their story/history, as always. Before dinner, the governor once again displayed his true measure. He was seated at the dinner table as people came in to join him. He stood up to greet them. He didn’t have to, but he did. 

When I entered the room, he not only stood, but he also pulled out the chair next to him for me. This had nothing to do with me as I “can do him absolutely no good.” He would have for any woman. Men pulling out chairs for women is a traditional gesture of chivalry and politeness. It is a way to show consideration. 

He is the governor, for goodness sake. He didn’t have to stand for anyone. Yet he did. Not a lot of leaders would have conducted themselves in this manner. Our governor did. It may seem like a small thing, but it truly showed his true measure. Thank you, sir.