<h2><SPAN name="page68"></SPAN><span class="pagenum"></span>TIME’S GAZE</h2>
<p class="poetry">Time looked me in the eyes while passing by<br/>
The milestone of the year. That piercing gaze<br/>
Was both an accusation and reproach.<br/>
No speech was needed. In a sorrowing look<br/>
More meaning lies than in complaining words,<br/>
And silence hurts as keenly as reproof.</p>
<p class="poetry">Oh, opulent, kind giver of rich hours,<br/>
How have I used thy benefits! As babes<br/>
Unstring a necklace, laughing at the sound<br/>
Of priceless jewels dropping one by one,<br/>
So have I laughed while precious moments rolled<br/>
Into the hidden corners of the past.<br/>
And I have let large opportunities<br/>
For high endeavour move unheeded by,<br/>
While little joys and cares absorbed my strength.</p>
<p class="poetry"><SPAN name="page69"></SPAN><span class="pagenum">p.
69</span>And yet, dear Time, set to my credit this:<br/>
<i>Not one white hour have I made black with hate</i>,<br/>
<i>Nor wished one living creature aught but good</i>.</p>
<p class="poetry">Be patient with me. Though the sun slants
west,<br/>
The day has not yet finished, and I feel<br/>
Necessity for action and resolve<br/>
Bear in upon my consciousness. I know<br/>
The earth’s eternal need of earnest souls,<br/>
And the great hunger of the world for Love.<br/>
I know the goal to high achievement lies<br/>
Through the dull pathway of self-conquest first;<br/>
And on the stairs of little duties done<br/>
We climb to joys that stand thy test. O Time,<br/>
Be patient with me, and another day,<br/>
Perchance, in passing by, thine eyes may smile.</p>
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