Once young I seldom thought of future times
when helps and hurts would narrow down my run,
when joys and sadness still would sound their chimes
and my response would be soon day soon done.

In middle life I busy focused close
when do as soon as possible applied,
when small rewards arrived with hopeful dose
and my desire would ride the fulsome tide.

These later years old masks I bring to mind
when long forgotten chances prick the veil,
when seeming fadeless still-might-be's rewind
and my reply would be repeated tale.

Take pleasure from all nows, soon dimming froms,
and do not wait until the darkness comes.

- Robert Stone, 30 January 2011