Deeds

Yet of this dust we must make our mark
For each time and talent is extended with caution forgot.
Great and small face the dark

Each by choice, his lasting monument defines.
By action shows his lack of understanding.
By these brief moments a story told of lasting lines.

As the wise ask, “where shall I be a hundred years hence”?
This my life a book all shall read.
Will I be proud or shamefully bowed thence?

Do not I allow my sweet soul this prison birth?
Chained and fettered, heart stooped not to rise.
This dark path I trod, the cost for wasted mirth.

Brother, sister what weight I bare to you my influence share.
If duty I deny; thine own true soul I defy
Poorest wretch is I if to you I be a lie.

Wish it were not so but each must bare a load
Nothing of waste only that strength you may taste.
So to the weak you can show the better road.

So what do you decide; hand divine in bliss to abide.
Or to a lesser god make thy vow.
By his deceit remain chained in defeat to be left outside.