Reflections on Life

Reflections on Life by Kenneth Clarke

To be seated beside an over-crowded byway
on a mid-summers morn
Filled from within by the abundant joys of life
free from worldly scorn
Watching multitudes of people promenade by
each unique in his own way
Some walking, some running, knowing not where they go
caring less where they'll stay
It is sad to see someone pass another upon the street
with nare a smile or greeting
Their minds too filled with selfish thoughts
to realize I life's full meaning
It makes one wonder what a sad world we would have
if all its people acted like these seem to be
Too caught up in themselves and their own success
to feel passion for you and me
Yet, most are happy and gay though there are some that are sad
and a few that are shy
The young burst with laughter while the elderly cry with sorrow
knowing that soon they will die
Yet despite all its problems life goes on day after day
in tribute to those who’ve passed away
Yes, all the complexities of the past generations
are all here to stay
But how comforting it is to know that I may die
cleansed and with peace of mind
Knowing that I've contributed in my small way
to the world I've left behind