Compelling wonders wind through youthful dreams
enticing tenderfoot to tougher trail
where golden seemingly deserving schemes
too often shine their hour but later fail.

Constraining choices narrow future hopes
ensnaring visions dimmed to prison dread
where cherished trials questing upward slopes
can daily start but never get ahead.

Coercive age no invitation needs
entwining former strength in useless limb
where memories of skill enabled deeds
begin with joy but end with sorrow grim.

The young go forth believing time is theirs
but old retreat expecting growing cares.

- Robert Stone, 31 December 2011