To You About Me

I walked along the road of life; ‘Twas strewn with souls both good and rife. My path had been both straight and sure. By good example, made more sure.

Now came a turning in that road, It grew more rough and widened more. I left my home—no guiding hand No voice to tell me where to stand.

I traveled North in search of Strength. I sallied South more truths to learn. I meandered toward the setting sun, To get the gold to help me on.

Now I’m working, wishing, hoping Thinking I may get some good From the school which was my choice, And thereupon my life make sure.

In this quest I wonder often, If my foot may slip unnoted Into untruth or disaster Or be content with nothing noted.

My quest was started with a full vim. I studied hard, then I grew thin. I thought I loved a girl—then near. But later learned—she was no dear.

My second year I started grim, To fight off every little whim. My work was good, but lacked the vim Which sets it off is right good trim.

In the third year I settled down And made my schoolwork fairly hum. But life seemed empty—What! No goal? I was traveling fast—but where?

A party, a dance, a friendly word. She came like morning fresh and sweet. Strangers?—Sure—but thoughts alike, We found companionship discreet.

The days passed on. I saw her often. First a tango, then poor excuses, To get to see her I used ruses. She hurt me once, ‘twas soon forgotten. And I found her sweet; enthralling.

Now I’ve found a goal in life. Instilled by thoughts she says so freely. And if I heed their gentle warning I hope to find my child of “Morning”.

Ellsworth Clark 13 June 1932