ONLY THEN

The morning of my life was filled with youthful dreams
No goals did I believe were impossible for me to reach
Until the clock of time began ticking my morning away
ONLY THEN did I face reality only passing time can teach.

After the morning of my life passed my afternoon arrived
ONLY THEN did I seek dreams I knew were possible to realize
I cast away those youthful dreams that once seemed so real
With a solid foundation of security that was solid and wise.

One day the clock of time will tick nightfall into my life
When it does memories of my morning and afternoon will remain
I will smile when I remember my impossible dreams of youth
And very thankful in my afternoon the wisdom I attained

Ralph L. Clark © 2001