The Heritage

CRY out on Time that he may take away

Your cold philosophies that give no hint

Of spirit-quickened flesh; fall down and pray

That Death come never with a face of flint:

Death is our heritage; with Life we share 5

The sunlight that must own his darkening hour:

Within his very presence yet we dare

To gather gladness like a fading flower.

For even as this our joy not long may live

Perfect; and most in change the heart can trace 10

The miracle of life and human things:

All we have held to destiny we give;

Dawn glimmers on the soul-forsaken face;

Not we but others hear the bird that sings.