Before one recognizes there is choice,
a thousand possibilities are one
unseparated till one raises voice
to question how and why a thing is done.

Before one realizes there is loss,
unlimited the future chances seem
occasions to eliminate the dross
to leave a place for fading second dream.

Before one comprehends it there is hope,
uncountable dim glimpses past all rules
that would reduce to rational life's scope,
replacing sacred art with mundane tools.

To challenge what appears to be firm fixed
requires accepting pain and pleasure mixed.

- Robert Stone, 23 September 2012