THE OLD MAN SPEAKS

I dare not come to you with virile phrase To tell you to give heed to what I say: To live your life in age-instructed way, To light your dawn with sunset’s fading rays. I dare not wish to live again my days. I, too, was careless when birds sang in May, I loved to wander on the primrose way, Untaught, I crashed through life’s conflicting maze. Reverance, sanctity, and holy awe, Your body’s kingdom, and your soul the king. These are the messages of God I bring, To keep your holiness without a flaw. God gave to you the priceless gift of youth, And I, unheeded, offer you mere truth.