Time in its ceaseless flow asks what I've made
Of this brief voyage in life's changing tides,
Which North Star guided me through light and shade -
Austerity's sure course, or fame's gilded rides?
Have I pursued the true rewards of heart
That outlive wealth and leave no emptier trace?
Or squandered moments in each busy mart
Chasing will-o'-the-wisps with empty haste?
As billows bear me on, I scan within
For answers to life's trials brave faced or fled -
What freight have I to show for passage grim?
What harbor now awaits this weathered head?
The helmsman smiles, all's well that's come to shore -
My ship was steered by love, and love still leads me more.