THE SAGE (To M.)

O Gladness shining bravely From out the eyes of youth, Be strong in your belief of good, Of valor and of truth. For soon enough, Too soon enough— The gladdest light meets doubt, Then flickers, flutters, just a bit, But, doesn’t quite go out. O Sadness peering divinely From out the eyes of age, Be strong in your belief of good. To youth—still be the sage. For soon enough, Too soon enough, The saddest light in doubt, Flickers, flutters, flickers, And finally goes out.